Homeowners and businesses could save $11 billion in property taxes over five years under a plan unveiled Thursday by the Florida Senate that would hand new tax advantages to home buyers while forcing cities and counties to roll back taxes and limit further collections.

Day 38

"Legislature: Day 38 at a glance" See also "Tallahassee ticker".

Brown In Hot Water

"The e-mail, forwarded by Rep. Donald Brown from his state-issued account, had a clip-art cartoon and read: 'Reminder: April 15th. Don't forget to pay your taxes . . . 12 million illegal aliens are depending on you!'"

Offensive.

Inaccurate.

Inappropriate.

Ignorant.

All these words were used by Miami-Dade lawmakers to describe their thoughts when they -- like other House members and staff -- received the e-mail from the DeFuniak Springs Republican.

An outraged Hispanic Caucus even said Thursday that it's considering filing a complaint. The caucus meets Monday. If they decide to do so, Brown could face a reprimand.

Budget

"State lawmakers in the Senate and House approved similar plans for the state budget Thursday, highlighted by school spending plans that were nearly identical." "Lawmakers close on budgets". But see "Budgets $1.5 billion apart" and "2 budgets must be made one".

Restricting Petitioners

"A House panel Thursday gave the grocery giant [Publix] another victory when it voted to give all businesses the right to ban signature gatherers from private property."

The Economic Expansion and Infrastructure Council approved the measure (HB 559) over the objections of the League of Women Voters and other critics.

''The league is against anything that would make citizen involvement more difficult,'' said Marilynn Wills, a Tallahassee organizer for the volunteer group that sponsors voter-registration drives.

Critics say the move would make grocery stores and shopping malls - the most popular, voter-rich gathering spots - off-limits. They also complained that businesses would be encouraged to invite some signature drives but discriminate against others.

And that's the way it should be, said David Daniel, a lobbyist for the Florida Chamber of Commerce.

To Replace Winn

"Former public schools Chancellor Jim Warford appears to be the leading candidate to run the state's Department of Education for Gov. Charlie Crist. Warford, once the elected school superintendent of Marion County and now the executive director of the Florida Association of School Administrators, was forced from his job under Gov. Jeb Bush after he questioned the fairness of Bush's school grading plan. Last year he supported Crist's rival in the Republican primary for governor, Tom Gallagher." "Ex-chancellor could head Department of Education".

A Bushco Thing

The Palm Beach Post editors: "When the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission - made up of Jeb Bush appointees - wrongly reduced protections under state law for Florida's endangered manatees, the gentle sea cows still had federal protection. Now, the George W. Bush administration, with the help of defeated California Republican Congressman Richard Pombo's former policy director, wants to remove the manatee's protections as a federal endangered species." "Stop stalking sea cows".

Hurricane Wilma

"Responding to outrage from local governments, state officials moved Thursday to redirect a $100-million federal grant from the My Safe Florida Home mitigation program to victims of Hurricane Wilma." "State steers $100-million to storm aid".

Whoopee!

"Hurricane supplies to be tax-free again during 12-day shopping period".

"Foolish"

The Sun-Sentinel editors think it is "foolish for state lawmakers not to tap into a federal program that offers, at a sharp discount, antiviral drugs to combat avian influenza. With just a few weeks before they wrap up the 2007 session, neither the House nor Senate has included the $36.7 million for the medication in its draft budget. If lawmakers don't act, Florida will be the only state in the nation that won't have the antiviral on order with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services program." "Public Health".

Clueless

The Miami Herald editors: "White House and congressional critics who rejected Gov. Charlie Crist's call for national catastrophic insurance are either remarkably uninformed or shamelessly out of touch with reality. Whatever the case, Gov. Crist and other coastal-states leaders who understand the serious threat of major storms to the nation's economy, not to mention the lives of tens of millions of people, should continue to argue for relief. Their message eventually will get through -- sooner rather than later, we hope." "Clueless on storms".

Voucher Madness

"An Ocala correspondence school operator who received $268,000 in corporate tax credit voucher money but awarded no vouchers has had his grand theft conviction overturned by an appellate court."

Jurors had found James Isenhour guilty of stealing the money after a three-day trial in November 2005, but a three-judge panel of the 5th District Court of Appeal agreed with the trial judge that, because of the loosely written law creating the vouchers, the state did not prove that it had a legal right to the money.

Bushco Flip-flop

"Despite pleas from a fellow Republican, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist, the Bush administration has come out against creating a national catastrophe fund to spread risks and bring down insurance premiums for people in high-risk states like Florida. Crist says President Bush just last year seemed to support such a fund by saying, 'Maybe it's time we did this.' But the president must have heard from his friends in the insurance industry since then." "Catastrophe".

Mad As A Wet Hen

"Crist upset about proposed tuition hikes in state budget".

Florida Considers Local Mail-in Elections

"Some legislators want to bring local voting even closer to home by authorizing mail-in elections. And Pembroke Pines officials say their city is the perfect test case. A measure struggling to get a hearing in the Legislature would give counties the option of conducting local elections completely by mail, a move that could save money and increase participation, said Pembroke Pines Commissioner Angelo Castillo." "Pines ponders mail-in voting".

Posada

"An appeals court on Thursday blocked the release of anti-Castro Cuban militant Luis Posada Carilles, who was set to be freed on bond." "Appeals court blocks release of Posada from jail".

Kids in Cars

"Leaving a child alone in a motor vehicle could leave you with a criminal record and possibly time in prison. A bill (SB 2) that the Senate tentatively passed Thursday would increase the penalty for leaving a child unattended or unsupervised in a vehicle from a traffic citation to a second-degree misdemeanor. " "Senate advances bill on kids, cars".

DCF

"Like his predecessors, Florida Department of Children and Families Secretary Bob Butterworth has proposed major changes for the agency that he says, without overstatement, affects people more than any other. But this time, the 50,000 abused, neglected or abandoned children in DCF's care actually will benefit from the changes." "Right changes at DCF".

Here's An Idea

"The Hillsborough County supervisor of elections thinks young adults would be more likely to vote if they were registered at the same time they got their first driver's license, at 16.".

Here's Another Idea

The St Pete Times editors remind us that "Florida could reduce property taxes by $2-billion a year if lawmakers would only collect sales taxes already owed on Internet purchases. Regrettably, no one is even trying." "Click, shop, evade taxes of $2-billion".

Formula Study

"South Florida lawmakers waged another losing battle Thursday to alter the state's school-funding formula -- but this time there was at least a debate before the final vote. In the end the state House agreed to set aside $750,000 in the state's $70-billion-plus budget to do a comprehensive study of the complex formula that is used to parcel out money to each school district." "House OK's school funding study".

"A Stroke of Good Timing"

"Crist is enjoying a stroke of good timing that will allow him to wait until the regular legislative session ends May 4 before he promotes state Sen. Nancy Argenziano to the Public Service Commission." "PSC job to wait for end of session".

Database

"Florida lawmakers are now considering several bills that would create a healthcare information network, where physicians could access a statewide Internet database of medical records. Despite concerns over expense and privacy, advocates -- including the Florida Medical Association -- say electronic records promise greater patient safety, more efficiency and reduced healthcare costs for consumers." "Lawmakers consider statewide medical database".

Dissing Johnnie

"House approves $8M cut for USF's Byrd center".

FAMU

"Florida A&M University responded to a harsh state audit with explanations for missing money and plans to improve as the Legislature softened its tone on the problems." "FAMU: Audit findings not so dire". See also "FAMU responds to criticisms".

See 'Ya

"U.S. Reps. Adam Putnam of Bartow and Gus Bilirakis of Palm Harbor are both losing staff members." "Putnam, Bilirakis Staffers Leave".

Fishy

"Wine-Shipping Bill Fails After Fishy Vote".

Charlie and Wolf

"Interviewed on his trip to DC by CNN, Gov. Charlie Crist dismissed a suggestion that Arizona Republican Sen. John McCain will drop his presidential bid - and be replaced by former Gov. Jeb Bush."

"Anything can happen in politics and Gov. Bush was an extraordinary leader for our state, so he would be a great candidate, there's no question about it," Crist told CNN host Wolf Blitzer who asked Crist whether a Bush candidacy was "at all in the cards." Blitzer noted his colleague, former Clinton strategist James Carville had suggested that "at some point John McCain might drop out and Jeb Bush could be drafted to throw his hat in the ring."

But, Crist added, "I don't see John McCain dropping out though, in all candor. I mean somebody who was a prisoner for 5 years in Vietnam is not the kind of person who quits."

Crist also told Blitzer he believes a Jan. 29 primary in Florida is "about a done deal.

Largo

"A city manager fired after revealing his sex change plans taped a segment Thursday night for CNN rather than appearing live on the network as was previously scheduled, said a spokeswoman for a nonprofit group representing him." "Fired transsexual city manager takes his case to television".

"Jeb!" Watch

"Tenet [Healthcare Corp.] also has been a major political donor in Florida. The company has given to candidates of both parties, but most heavily to the Republican Party. From 1996 through last year, Tenet contributed $162,500 to the state party." "Jeb Bush Lands Corporate Board Gig".

Insurance Bills

"Two insurance bills that had languished for nearly a month jumped on the fast track this week after Gov. Charlie Crist made personal appearances to lobby for the proposed legislation." "Insurance bills advance with help from Crist". See also "Crist pushes for larger role for Citizens", "Crist makes push for insurance bill", "Bill gives Citizens leg up in market" and "Governor plugs Citizens insurance".

"Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions"

"A plan that could make Florida one of the nation's most aggressive states in reducing greenhouse gas emissions was approved by a Senate committee Thursday - the same day a new 14-year study ranked the state second in the country in the increase of carbon dioxide pollution." "Florida lawmakers move expansive energy plan forward". But see "Panel passes 2 energy plans" ("The future of Florida's $83 million effort to free itself from foreign oil and fight global warming grew murky Thursday when a Senate panel passed competing plans.")

Nelson

"U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson is demanding that the Justice Department explain why it has not expanded a program that shares crime and terrorism information among federal, state and local agencies." "Nelson: Why can't cops share more?".

Choice?

"An icon of Florida's civil-rights movement told students, parents and education administrators Thursday that giving poor families school choice is 'a continuation of the dream' that black leaders envisioned 40 years ago." "Civil-rights leader: Give parents choice in schools". See also "Thousands rally for scholarship programs".

"Government-run" Insurance

The Tampa Trib editorial board asserts that "Florida has a huge problem with its uninsured, but the solution doesn't include taking people out of private insurance plans and putting them into a government-run program." The editors take a jab at

U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, D-Tampa, who is leading the charge for a $50 billion, five-year reauthorization of the federal program that pays 71 percent of the cost of caring for children whose families meet a certain income test. The state pays the rest.

Castor hopes to keep Florida from being penalized for having created enrollment barriers that significantly lowered the number of children covered. Legislation in Washington would split new money among states based on their current enrollment. Castor wants to see the count averaged over several years, which would improve Florida's chances of receiving its fair share.

As important as this program is, it is unfortunate to see Democrats positioning children's health care as the first step toward a universal health care system.

Shining a Light on Another Failed Jebacy

"Usually, state confirmation hearings are a breeze. The governor appoints someone. The Senate has that person over, asks some questions, swears him in, and says congratulations."

That's not what happened Thursday to Tom Pelham, Gov. Charlie Crist's pick to lead the Department of Community Affairs, the agency that oversees community growth.

As Pelham stood before the Senate Committee on Community Affairs, Sen. Gary Siplin, D-Orlando, rigorously questioned Pelham concerning the DCA's funding of the Front Porch Florida Initiative.

Front Porch, the brainchild of former Gov. Jeb Bush, was created under the DCA in 1999 to help stimulate economic growth in distressed urban communities. Siplin pitched the idea to Bush way back then to help attract private investors to low-income areas.

But over the years, Front Porch has been plagued by reports of mismanagement, most recently making headlines in Pensacola, where one of Front Porch's 20 local organizations is under investigation for allegations a community liaison used the money to pay herself, her mother and her private property taxes.

Cellphone Insurance

"Florida consumers could soon get free insurance for their cellphones. But consumer advocates warn they'll likely pay for it somewhere in their monthly minute plans. The House Jobs and Entrepreneurship Council gave the OK Thursday to a proposal that would carve out an exemption in the law that generally prohibits offering free insurance products, usually considered an unfair or deceptive trade practice." "Critics wary of free cellphone insurance".

Whatever

"Crist wants Gov's mansion to go green".

Tap Restrictions

"State water managers ordered the deepest water-use cutbacks ever across South Florida on Thursday and started the formal process of extending restrictions year-round." "State approves tighter tap restrictions".

The long-awaited Senate plan is significant for a number of reasons:

Unlike the House plan, it will have bipartisan support. It likely will be a lesser financial hit on cities and counties, who are apt to support it as an alternative to the House plan.

The question is how the House will react - with just 12 days left in the 60-day session.

Day 37

"Legislature: Day 37 in Tallahassee". See also "2007 Legislature roundup".

"An act of political theater"

"In an act of political theater, the outnumbered House Democrats failed and knew they would. But they scored political points - their goal all along." "In school tax fight, loss may be a win".

"During a debate Wednesday over the state budget, [Rep. Ron Saunders, D-Key West] and his fellow House Democrats attempted to wipe out 20 percent of the $7.9 billion that property owners would pay in the coming year to help finance schools."

The Democrats would do that by replacing that percentage with cash from state reserves.

But the Republican majority didn't like the looks of the amendment.

Republicans argued that the property tax increase for schools is necessary because of the voter-approved constitutional amendment that requires state money be spent to reduce class sizes.

Obama

"Democrat Barack Obama comes to Tampa Sunday for a different kind of fundraiser. Rather than writing a check for $1,000 or more to see a private speech and munch on cheese cubes, people can see Obama at the Cuban Club in Ybor City for $25." "A campaign fundraiser for just $25? Yep.".

Radio Charlie

"Crist is starting a weekly radio address for use on Florida Public Radio and other stations around the state", so he can tell everyone how he will, try not to laugh, "'make Florida the brightest star in the American sky.'" "Radio Charlie".

Meanwhile, Charlie continues to draw national attention, such as this piece in USA Today (via The Buzz).

Birds of a Feather

"Brandon Sen. Ronda Storms is only halfway through her first session, but she's already getting praise from Senate President Ken Pruitt." "Senate president praises Storms". See also "Senate Taken By Storms".

Corcoran

"Richard Corcoran, the former top aide to House Speaker Marco Rubio who's running for the Senate, has received contributions from hundreds of early donors. The Crystal River lawyer reports raising $186,000, with nearly 25 cents of every dollar ($41,000) from Tallahassee." Find out who some of the well known donors are here: "Richard Corcoran's donors".

Dubya Disses Charlie

"Despite pleas for help from Gov. Charlie Crist, the Bush administration on Wednesday bluntly opposed creation of a national catastrophe insurance fund to rein in homeowner premiums, saying federal intrusion would disrupt the private market and burden taxpayers." "Bush opposes national disaster fund, saying it would hurt insurance industry". See also "White House opposes catastrohe fund" and "Gov. Crist Asks Senate For Catastrophe Fund".

Budget Blues

"The Florida Legislature is poised to pass a $70 billion-plus budget that pumps new dollars to classrooms, the Everglades and prisons by relying on higher property taxes and college tuition rates." "State budget nears passage". See also "School taxes, spending are focus of budget debates in Legislature " and "$1.5 Billion Gap Remains In House, Senate Budgets".

"Belated"

The Sun-Sentinel editors: "Broward County elections officials plan to provide ballots in Creole by the 2008 general elections. The change is welcome, even if it has an 'it's about time,' 'belated' and 'long overdue' feel to it." "Voting".

"There ought to be a law"

Howard Troxler: "Good grief! The government, telling people which way to vote? And using tax dollars to do it?"

There ought to be a law.

There are bills in this year's Legislature, both in the Senate and House, to ban it. But those bills are in trouble.

Senate Bill 734 is by Sen. Charlie Justice, D-St. Petersburg. Here is the key sentence:

A local government or a person acting on behalf of a local government may not expend, directly or indirectly, public funds to support or oppose an issue, referendum, or amendment that is subject to a vote of the electors.

Local elected officials could still state their opinion. Local governments could still put out truly "informational" material that didn't take sides.

Justice's bill passed unanimously in the Senate Ethics and Elections Committee, but has idled since.

The bigger problem is that House Bill 749, sponsored by Rep. Janet Long, D-Seminole, is stuck at the starting gate. Long's bill is unlikely to be heard in the House Ethics & Elections Committee.

Formula

"South Florida lawmakers tried and again failed Wednesday to undo a school financing formula that for the past three years has favored Central and North Florida schools." "Schools budget still tilts toward north, central". See also "State rejects funding revision for schools", "S. Florida schools lose fund fight" and "S. Florida legislators fail to restore school funds they lost to rural counties".

Shutter Tax

"A state proposal to require many Florida homeowners to buy storm shutters faces rising criticism from residents who say such mandatory purchases will increase their property taxes by driving up the value of their homes." "Hidden shutter cost alights".

Bird Flu

"The Florida House on Wednesday decided the state should start making preparations for a possible outbreak of bird flu by buying a stockpile of medicine. House members approved a proposal by Rep. Shelley Vana, D-West Palm Beach, to set aside $8 million in the $70 billion-plus state budget to buy anti-viral drugs. The Senate has earmarked no money for the program." "House backs plan to buy stockpile of flu drugs".

Just Another Constituent

"The dock at Shebel's home on the Tarpon River was too short for his 48-foot Hatteras. He appealed to local officials and has, at times, had to rent a $30,000-a-year marina slip to berth the Sail Seeker."

Rep. Ellyn Bogdanoff, R-Fort Lauderdale, has taken on the issue this year. She says she's not doing a favor for Shebel, a constituent and contributor to her legislative campaigns. Shebel and Associated Industries have given at least $7,200 to Bogdanoff's campaigns since 1998.

Last week, Bogdanoff, the House majority whip, tacked an amendment onto another legislator's bill. It would ban state or local governments from preventing neighbors from sharing a dock, as long as the dock does not exceed 100 feet in length.

Lake O

"A House panel moved quietly Wednesday to strengthen an $85 million plan to protect Lake Okeechobee and the Caloosahatchee and St. Lucie rivers it pollutes." "Panel makes changes to protection plans".

Hot Air

"The Senate takes up global warming today just as an environmental group releases a study showing what it claims is a dramatic rise in green house gasses in the state." "Lawmakers grapple with global warming".

"Moralizing sex education"

"The Bush administration came to power on the wings of lofty rhetoric about fixing or getting rid of government programs that don't work, and doing so with 'sound science' and 'outcome-based' evidence. More than six years of the administration's 'sound science' have shown it to be -- on global warming, on stem-cell research, in the war in Iraq -- the science of politics and ideology over fact. Moralizing sex education to the point of calling sex outside of marriage psychologically damaging for all people (as federal law codifies the matter) isn't just outdated. It's damaging to the very aims of sensible sex education focused on informing and protecting teens rather than scaring them." "Abstinence-only rebuke".

From The "Values" Crowd

- "House Plans Cuts To Developmentally Disabled Service". See also "Budget cuts scare parents of disabled" and "Budget would limit services for developmentally disabled in Fla.".

- "State may limit aid that helps poor buy homes".

Affordable Housing

"Affordable-housing advocates have struggled to be heard in Tallahassee, thanks to a tight budget year and the raging property tax debate." "Property tax plans obscure housing".

'Glades

"The drying marsh of the Everglades may wither along with suburban lawns, and scientists fear the damage could be severe." "Drought could cripple Everglades' life".

Jebbie's "Faster executions at a cheaper price"

The St Pete Times editorial board: "There are no shortcuts to justice."

The only real way to prevent innocent people from being executed is to abolish the death penalty or provide competent, professional lawyers. In Florida, that kind of representation has come from the Capital Collateral Regional Counsel (CCRC). These state-run regional offices are staffed by experienced lawyers who know the ins and outs of the capital appellate process.

For years, the CCRC system worked well, until Jeb Bush as governor decided it was working a little too well. He resented the successes the offices had in representing their clients and sought to close them all down. He wanted faster executions at a cheaper price, and he thought that he could make that happen by turning the cases over to private lawyers whose hours-per-case would be sharply limited. It was a way to pretend that death row inmates received due process, while handicapping their representation.

Sea Cows

Even "without disputing the Fish and Wildlife Service's conclusion in a five-year review that manatees no longer face extinction, it should be obvious that the protections credited most with boosting the marine mammal's numbers from an estimated 1,200 late in the last century to 3,200 today should remain strictly enforced. That is especially crucial when Florida's rapid growth of human population and boating traffic, coupled with reduced spring and warm power plant flows (critical to winter survival), are considered." "Status lists aside, it's protection that counts". See also "Manatees not yet ready for downlisting".

Take It, Its Yours

"Once doomed because of a road dispute, a compromise bill that allows Palm Beach County to give about 1,949 acres of land to Broward County unanimously passed a House council Wednesday. The bill (HB 1315) makes the annexation contingent on Palm Beach County removing University and Riverside drives from its long-range road plan and the state approving the change." "P.B. County shift to Broward gains".

Not A Healthy Start

"Alarming infant-mortality rates, especially those for black babies, has children advocates and legislators dueling for state dollars for the Healthy Start program." "Healthy Start may face budget crisis for children".

Voucher Madness

"Crist joins civil rights leaders and what organizers say will be thousands of parents and students at a Capitol rally to support the state’s two remaining voucher programs." "Crist supports remaining voucher programs".

Wexler

The Sun-Sentinel editorial board: "In one of the most notorious displays of his political heft, U.S. Rep. Robert Wexler threw his considerable influence behind an unqualified candidate -- an elections neophyte vying to be elections chief -- all to unseat Theresa LePore after Palm Beach County's troubled role in the 2000 election fiasco."

Wexler was successful, at least in getting Arthur Anderson elected. But the ballot-box victory has not translated into the kind of success the congressman wanted most: a smooth-running elections system.

Three years later, not only has Anderson failed to push for the paper trail his campaign promised, he has hosted a string of botched elections that left candidates confused and the public leerier than ever.

Slots

"The Senate on Wednesday passed a bill by Sen. Stephen Wise to create an endowment for the popular Florida Prepaid Scholarship Program, which would get the slot machine taxes and use the endowment to help financially needy students." "One-armed bandit helps pay college tuition".

Whatever

"Buzz spotted Rep. Dennis Baxley ducking out of the Governor's Club Wednesday evening, where, coincidentally, Tagg [sic] Romney was in town campaigning for his dad, presidential candidate Mitt Romney." "Spotted". See also "Tagg Romney Recruits In Tallahassee".

Speaking of Tagg's dad, "The Hill today reports that the Mitt Romney campaign has spent about $298,000 on TV ads in Florida (Tampa and Orlando markets)". "Romney's TV buy".

Renter Relief

"Florida's renters could soon see some relief from rising monthly rents - a rebate check from the county tax collector. A proposed committee bill (PCB GEAC 07-23) that unanimously passed the House Government Efficiency and Accountability Council without debate Wednesday is designed to help a sector of residents that had yet to be specifically addressed in property tax relief plans." "House committee OKs rebate for renters bill".

FAMU

"Florida A&M University officials said Wednesday its finances are not as bad as they look." "FAMU responds to audit questions".

CD 13 A Fundraising Boon for Dems?

"A Washington-based group dubbed the Florida 13 Recount Fund poured $55,500 into the state Democratic Party over the last three months, helping the party raise $1.3 million overall. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee plowed in another $38,000. Among the Dems' biggest corporate contributors: Blue Cross and Blue Shield ($55,000), the Florida Association of Realtors ($54,000), the HCA hospital chain ($40,000) and BellSouth ($30,000)." "Cash to Contest Election Fuels Florida Dems".

Brain Trust

"House Speaker Marco Rubio has tapped Winter Park Republican Rep. Dean Cannon to lead the House's property-tax negotiating team when talks with the Senate began in earnest next week. Cannon is a key member of Rubio's inner circle, and he's in line to become speaker himself in four years. Rubio also signaled this morning that he expects the property-tax debate to become awfully heated during the session's closing weeks." "Cannon Will Lead House Prop Tax Talks".

Stem Cell Fight

"Citizens for Science and Ethics has hired a top GOP gun, Brett Doster, who ran Tom Gallagher's unsuccessful campaign for governor last year and led President Bush's re-election campaign in Florida in 2004. The group is pushing legislation and a constitutional amendment that calls for stem cell research without human embryos." "Fundraising for stem cell research".

Advice For Mel

"Sen. Martinez should take a page from Florida Gov. Charlie Crist's handbook. Rather than going for comprehensive reform with a Hail Mary pass to the end zone, the senator should move the ball as far down the field as possible and come back to tackle the rest on another day." "If Congress Refuses Reform, Martinez Should Seek First Down".

Ros-Lehtinens To Yale

"Miami Republican Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and her husband, Miami attorney Dexter Ros-Lehtinen, are heading to President Bush's alma mater for appearances before the Yale University College Republicans - an invite that comes courtesy of daughter, Patricia, who is active in the club." "The Ros-Lehtinens hit the campus".

Hate

"A House panel Wednesday approved a bill that would classify attacks on homeless people as hate crimes." "Panel OKs hate label for attacks on homeless".

But Secretary of State Kurt Browning expressed serious concerns about where the Senate would get the money, dipping into a $91 million federal Help America Vote Act fund that is supposed to go toward maintaining a statewide voter registration list for the next eight years.

Day 25

"Legislature: Day 25 at a glance" See also "The day in Tallahassee, Tuesday, April 10, 2007" and "2007 Legislature roundup".

Argenziano Gets It

"Crist confirmed Tuesday he will appoint fellow Republican and consumer champion Sen. Nancy Argenziano to the state panel that regulates utilities and telephone companies." "Crist pushes Argenziano's consumer mindset for PSC spot". See also "Crist to nominate Argenziano for PSC" and "That’s Commissioner Argenziano, to you".

Now That's An Insult

"Calling a recent snub of Jeb Bush an insult, state lawmakers demanded Tuesday that the University of Florida find a new way to honor the former governor. Their solution: Rename the UF College of Education after the Republican governor."

A House panel unanimously voted to force the state's largest university to honor Bush after a decision last month by UF's Faculty Senate to reject a proposal to award Bush an honorary degree. ...

Bush, however, doesn't want the honor, said Patricia Levesque, who now heads the Foundation for Florida's Future, the nonprofit organization that Bush set up to promote his education reforms.

Stem-cell Uncertainty

"A plan to spend state dollars on adult stem-cell research passed House and Senate panels Tuesday, but without guarantee of funding this year." "Stem-Cell Bills Advance; Funding Uncertain". See also "Florida lawmakers want to pay for adult stem cell research", "Lawmakers reach stem-cell compromise", "No funds for embryonic stem cells", "Stem-cell measures advance" and "Money woes trim stem-cell research hopes".

The First 100 Days

"For eight years, Florida's teachers were in the wilderness: A Republican governor with little patience for the public education system and a disdain for organized labor shut them out and rammed through proposals they hated. He treated their statewide union as his chief political foe. That's why, when the new Republican governor walked into a meeting room to sign a teacher-pay bill last month, the response was stunning: About a hundred teachers and union officials gave him a standing ovation." "Crist wins plaudits in first 100 days". See also "Promises & results".

This is a bit much, though: "Lefties for Crist?".

Rubio Pushes Tax Issue

"Speaker Marco Rubio has ordered a full House vote next week on his sweeping plan to trade lower property taxes for higher sales taxes, but top lawmakers signaled Tuesday that they might not try to put it on the ballot until next year." "Speaker pushes for vote on taxes". See also "Rubio sets House property tax vote", "Republicans may postpone tax-reform plan until 2008", "Rubio goes to phone, again, to sell tax plan", "Rubio Still Trying to Whip Up Prop Tax Support" and "The Big Debate Begins Next Week".

Meanwhile, "S. Florida officials say property tax cuts would force them to slash services".

There is a silver lining in all of this, at least for the GOPers: "the Florida Republican Party raised $3.9 million over the past three months, a sizable chunk of cash coming even amid the non-election year doldrums. With property-tax reform the top issue of the session, perhaps it's no surprise that the Florida Realtors Political Action Committee was among the top contributors to the ruling party. Flowing into GOP coffers was $205,000 this quarter from agents at the front lines of the state's ice-cold housing market. Benderson Management of Buffalo, N.Y., which develops property across Florida, was another big giver with $50,000. Anchors Street of Destin, another development company, gave $100,000. The Villages, the Central Florida retirement community, also contributed $100,000." "Tax Reform Pays for GOP" (also recall that "the Florida GOP raised a stunning $40.3 million in the two months before Crist's election last November.") See also "GOP's pre-session haul: $3.9-mil" and "Florida GOP rakes it in".

Sea Cows

"U.S. Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite of Brooksville, wants her House colleagues from Florida to join with her in asking the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Services to carefully weigh the impact of downgrading the manatee from endangered to threatened." See also "Florida Rep. Concerned About Manatee Designation". Background: "Manatees no longer endangered".

Excessive?

The Tampa Trib editors: "Crist wants every teacher in Florida's voluntary pre-kindergarten program to have a bachelor's degree by 2013. While a worthy aspiration, the goal is too far reaching." "Crist's Mandate Is Excessive To A Degree".

More From The "Values" Crowd

"As lawmakers discuss more than $150 million in spending cuts for disabled Floridians, family members struggle to cope with the possible consequences." "Budget cuts scare parents of disabled".

Guns at Work

"So far, 15 state senators have subscribed to the NRA's contention that an individual's right to bear arms does not stop at the entrance to the company parking lot. Four senators have voted in the opposite direction, believing businesses have the right to enter into contractual agreements with employees in which they may decide that keeping the workplace safe means keeping guns off company property, including parking lots." "NRA-driven gun bill headed to Senate floor". See also "Senate panel passes NRA bill" and "TV ad campaign mobilized against pro-gun bill".

"My General"

"With all due respect to Sen. Bill Nelson, Gov. Charlie Crist says he’s got assurances from 'my general' that the Florida National Guard is ready to meet challenges of the upcoming hurricane season." "Crist: Florida National Guard is Ready for Hurricane Season".

This in the face of news yesterday that the "Florida National Guard has only 53 percent of the dual-use equipment it once had for responding to a storm or domestic disturbance, a recent analysis by the Government Accountability Office found." "Florida Guard stretched thin, Nelson says".

The Sun-Sentinel editors argue that even though "the Guard says sufficient equipment and manpower are available to respond to a major storm, and additional supplies could be borrowed from other states or rented ... how long would that take, particularly with other states also facing equipment shortages? And how much bureaucratic red tape would be involved?".

Voucher Madness

"A private school voucher program struck down by the Florida Supreme Court would be revived by a pair of bills that won a Senate committee's approval Tuesday, even though they could trigger another legal challenge."

The high court last year ruled the Opportunity Scholarship Program - a keystone of former Gov. Jeb Bush's school accountability policy - created a separate school system for the voucher students. That violated the Florida Constitution's requirement for a uniform system of free public schools, the justices ruled.

Apparent Fundraising Violations

"Three state lawmakers [State Rep. Juan Zapata, and Sens. Gwen Margolis and Franklin Sands] accepted campaign donations after the legislative session began in March, an apparent violation of the Legislature's rules." "Three lawmakers appear to have violated fundraising ban".

Long Vacation

"Parents helped beat back an attempt Tuesday to gut a new state law that prohibits school districts from starting classes earlier than 14 days before Labor Day." "Lawmakers save summer vacation". See also "School bells won't ring earlier" and "Broward parents' calls and letters scuttle bill to allow early August school starts".

Ethics

"The House Ethics Committee, in its current form, would be scrapped under a new bill (H.R. 1754) introduced by a group of freshman Democratic House
members that includes Tampa’s Kathy Castor. In its place, a 12-member House Ethics Commission of former House members who are not lobbyists would police the ethical wrongdoings of elected representatives." "Castor, Others Want New Ethics Police".

FAMU

"The Senate's most prominent supporter of Florida A&M University and one of the Capitol's most powerful lobbyists said Tuesday FAMU Board of Trustees Chairwoman Challis Lowe has virtually no chance of staying on the board." "Lowe may lose her seat on FAMU board". See also "House budget chief: FAMU will keep control of engineering school's dollars".

Gangs

"Responding to a surge in gang violence, especially in gang-plagued Palm Beach County, the Legislature took a major step Tuesday to enacting a tougher, broader approach to addressing the problem. " "Florida House moves forward anti-gang legislation".

Vern's Wallet

"Although the election has been over for months, U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan is still donating money to his 2006 campaign for Congress. At the end of March, Buchanan, R-Longboat Key, donated $52,187.06 to his campaign to pay for expenses related to the November election, according to new paperwork he filed with the Federal Election Commission. He donated another $47,812.94 to his September primary election. With the extra $100,000, Buchanan adds to the Florida record he set last year for self-financing a campaign for the U.S. House." "Buchanan still donating to own campaign".

AFSCME Wins One

"A Senate committee quickly approved a plan Tuesday for raising pensions of workers in state hospitals to the same level correctional officers receive in Florida prisons." "Senate panel OKs bill to aid hospital workers".

Compensation

"The soft-spoken man took just 18 seconds to tell state senators the story of how the state robbed him of a quarter-century of his life ... Crotzer, 46, didn't need to say anything else Tuesday to the Senate Judiciary Committee, which quickly approved a bill to compensate him and any other ex-convict $50,000 for every year they spent in prison for crimes they didn't do. Crotzer's compensation: nearly $1.25 million." "Freed man closer to state payment". See also "Clock ticking for bill to compensate Crotzer".

UF Fees

"A House council endorses an overhauled version of the $500-per-semester proposal. A governor's aide urges caution." "UF's fee proposal gets a boost".

My Other Brother Geller

"Blood is thicker than water -- except, Senate Democratic Leader Steve Geller insists, when it comes to fundraising during the session. Geller, D-Cooper City, is catching some mild heat after invitations for a fundraiser on behalf his brother -- Joe Geller, who's running to replace term-limited House Democratic Leader Dan Gelber of Miami Beach -- were sent out on stationery bearing both Gellers' names." "Geller's Not Seeking Cash for Geller -- But Says He Could" See also "Geller for Geller? In Spirit Only".

"Another Wacky Story From South Florida"

The Miami Herald editorial board:

National news outlets have had a field day with last week's Associated Press report about five sex offenders living under the Julia Tuttle Causeway with the state's blessing. ''Another wacky story from South Florida,'' seems to be the subtext here. But it's really a cautionary tale; a recognition that allowing sex offenders to live under the bridge -- right down to daily visits from their parole officer, no less -- is glaring evidence of the unintended consequences of overly broad local ordinances that restrict where these offenders may live.

'Glades

"State officials turned off the tap last week on water withdrawals from the Everglades, another step toward helping the River of Grass live up to its name. The new rule, adopted by the South Florida Water Management District, means cities along the southeast coast must develop alternative water sources to meet the needs of their growing populations." "Turning off Everglades spigot is good first step".

Slots

"Crist met Tuesday with Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to talk about negotiating with the Seminole Indians in their bid for Las Vegas-style slots at tribal casinos." "Crist meets to discuss Seminole negotiations".

Amber Alerts

"Legislation inspired by last year's disappearance of Orlando's Jennifer Kesse cleared a Senate committee Tuesday, but it may face long odds of winning full approval this spring. The measure (CS/SB 2864) would expand the state's Amber Alert system for missing children to include anyone under age 26. That would make it easier for a parent, blood relative, partner or spouse to get a quick response from law-enforcement officials when a young person is feared missing." "Kesse legislation no sure thing".

"Look who's talking the 'I-Word'"

The Sun-Sentinel editors say "it's not going to happen,"

but when state lawmakers begin muttering the words "personal income tax," you know sheer desperation is setting in. ...

Amending the state Constitution to enact an income tax is a political non-starter. It's also an indication of how hard it is to fix Florida's tax structure.

With at least three proposals already out there, and another one expected soon from Senate Republicans, there's no sign of consensus and little patience for fantasies about an unfeasible tax alternative.

Klein Challenger

"Rep. Ron Klein, a Boca Raton Democrat who last fall defeated veteran Republican Rep. Clay Shaw, has drawn an official re-election challenge, reports CQ Politics.com. Marc Flagg, a Republican whom the website identifies as a former Navy pilot whose parents were killed on the plane that crashed into the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001, filed to run April 4 with the Federal Election Commission." "Competition for Klein".

Money Machine

"Republican state Sen. Jeff Atwater, running for Senate President for the 2009-10 session, raised $334,110 during the first quarter of this year for his 2008 reelection bid. That’s far and away the most money raised by any Florida legislative candidate during the first quarter, according to reports filed Tuesday." "Atwater top money-raiser in state".

Spousal Privilege

"The mysterious attack ads slamming John Dingfelder during the recent city council campaign were financed by people with close business ties to his opponent's husband."

The business associates of Julie Brown's husband poured at least $50,000 into the campaign, according to finance reports filed Tuesday.

Brown said during the campaign that she didn't know who was behind the ads.

In the final days before the election, an electioneering group called ElectionWatch-Florida mailed four fliers to south Tampa residents, attacking Dingfelder. The ads, titled "Presenting: Ding'felder Follies," criticized Dingfelder's ethics and his position on taxes.

ElectionWatch-Florida is run by Jack Hebert, who runs a political consulting firm called The Mallard Group. The group has worked with several Republican lawmakers.

The Rules Are Different Here

"Crist has asked the Florida Legislature to set aside $36.7 million, enough to treat 4.8 million people [for bird-flu]. But neither the House nor the Senate, which soon plan to put the final touches on their individual proposals for a $70 billion-plus state budget, have included the funding. That would make Florida the only state in the nation not in the federal program." "Money for bird-flu drug not in budgets". See also "Legislature rebuffs Crist's call to buy and stockpile anti-flu drugs".

An Orlando Thing

"Investigators in Florida and New York believe that tens of thousands of people across the country bought steroids and growth hormones illegally over the Internet from an Orlando pharmacy." "To reduce steroid abuse, start targeting suppliers".

A Family Affair

The Palm Beach Post editors: "On Tuesday, Palm Beach County Commissioner Mary McCarty didn't try to duck blame. She asked for it. We're happy to oblige. An editorial in Tuesday's Post annoyed Commissioner McCarty because it annoyed her husband, South Florida Water Management District Board Chairman Kevin McCarty, who hopes to be reappointed." "Enough blame for both".

Storms

"State Sen. Ronda Storms had mixed success Tuesday with two bills involving teenage girls and abortions."

Her bill requiring judges to consider and document certain factors when deciding whether a minor must notify parents she is having an abortion passed unanimously through a Senate committee.

But a separate committee - which she chairs - ran out of time before she could present her other bill. That proposal, which may be amended in coming weeks, would require health care workers and abortion clinics to take DNA samples from children yo

"Flat Champagne"

"The fizz from January's special session on property insurance now tastes like flat champagne. ... The benefit to consumers from the special session has been underwhelming. Yet the insurance industry wants more breaks. Giving them only would worsen the hangover." "Insurance: More to do".

Hillsborough Perseverance

"Coming to a ballot near you in 2008: Joe Redner. Two weeks after losing a bid for a Tampa City Council seat, the strip club owner said he's planning to run next year for a county commission seat." "Redner To Make 2008 County Commission Run". See also "Redner’s Planning to Run Again—For County Commission".

Day 24

"Legislature: Day 24 at a glance" See also "2007 Legislature roundup".

Claims

"Thirty-three families are awaiting approval by the state Legislature so they can be paid millions in jury awards or settlements in cases in which governments were at fault." "Victims hoping claims finally pay off".

Sea Cows

"Federal wildlife managers recommended knocking the manatee down a notch on the endangered species list." "A divided stand on manatees' future". See also "Manatees may lose "endangered" status".

"Stretched Thin"

"The war in Iraq has depleted the equipment inventory of the National Guard, potentially hampering its response to the predicted heavy hurricane season, Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Fla., said." "Florida Guard stretched thin, Nelson says".

Slots

"After years of antigambling battles, Florida's property-tax crisis and shrinking state budget have opened the door for gambling proponents, who persuaded a Senate Committee on Monday to approve expanding slot-machine gambling throughout the state." "Odds looking good for expanding slots". See also "Senate considers video lottery games".

OT?

"With the Legislature past its midpoint and the signature issue of property-tax reform far from settled, Gov. Charlie Crist issued a veiled warning Monday, saying he's willing to keep the Legislature in session until the issue is resolved." "Crist Talks of Overtime". See also "Special session, anyone?"

Pre-K

"Crist supports raising bar for pre-K teachers". See also "Degreed teachers for pre-K get boost" and "Crist Aims To Beef Up Pre-K Teaching Standards".

Doesn't this speak volumes: "When children’s education advocates staged a press conference Monday asking lawmakers to require teachers with bachelor’s degrees for state-paid universal Pre-K program, they touted the support of six former governors and the widow of a seventh: Claude Kirk, Reubin Askew, Bob Graham, Wayne Mixson, Bob Martinez and Buddy MacKay, ... Noticeably absent: Jeb Bush, who left office in January and on whose watch the current law not requiring a bachelor’s degree was passed. Children’s Campaign President Roy Miller, whose group helped passed the constitutional amendment creating the program, said they tried to get Bush, too. 'Attempts were made to reach out,' he said." "Just not Jeb".

The Best He Could Do

"New Gingrich, the best-known non-declared candidate in the Republican primary for president, will speak at a gathering of 'medical communicators' in Tampa Friday." "Gingrich To Speak At Tampa AMA Event".

Senior Tax Break

"The measure (HB 333), which implements a constitutional amendment approved by voters last fall, increases the homestead exemption from $25,000 to $50,000 for residents age 65 and older whose income does not exceed $23,414 in 2007. " "Tax break for low-income seniors".

"Hidden Cases"

"Credit should go to Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice R. Fred Lewis for jumping on the issue of hidden cases and secret dockets when it first emerged in the media last year. Lewis told the Miami Herald that when he learned that cases were being removed from the public docket, essentially wiping away any trace of their existence, he 'almost swallowed' his tongue." "Opening up hidden cases".

FAMU

"The Florida A&M University Board of Trustees unanimously urged the Florida Legislature on Monday not to move fiscal responsibility for the joint FAMU-Florida State University engineering school to FSU." "FAMU board questions fiscal shift".

"Magic City Children's Zone "

"State lawmakers are hoping to spark change in impoverished areas such as Liberty City by coordinating support services for children and families." "'Zone' may lift needy kids".

Plan 23

"DCF went through a name change and 22 reorganizations in 33 years. Mr. Butterworth is the fourth DCF secretary in the past nine years. His reorganization plan is to decentralize the agency, largely reversing the policies of former Gov. Jeb Bush, who shifted a lot of control from local districts to Tallahassee." "Make plan No. 23 work".

National Hurricane Center Funding

"Fully funding the National Hurricane Center should be a no-brainer at a time when coastal dwellings are increasing and storm activity is on the rise. Forecasts won't stop hurricanes from striking our shores, but better instruments and data collection will help minimize the damage with more-precise storm tracking and evacuation calls. This is why Bill Proenza, the National Hurricane Center's new director is arguing for more funding." "Save lives, damages". See also "U.S. Rep. from Boca seeks funds to replace hurricane forecast satellite" and "Protect neediest from hurricanes".

Marco Who?

"Most House lawmakers get to introduce six bills each year. But if you're Speaker Marco Rubio, you get 43." "Lawmaker squeezes 94 ideas into 43 House bills so far".

Poll Accuracy

William March:

One poll released in March showed John McCain leading among Republican voters in the GOP presidential primary in Florida, with 38 percent to Rudy Giuliani's 28 percent.

Another, at the same time, had Giuliani ahead 38 percent to McCain's 18 percent.

Despite doubts and occasional conflicting results like those, experts say advanced techniques make modern polls, particularly political polls, remarkably accurate.

Shutters

"A bill would require homeowners to buy storm protection in order to get any type of building permit." "Shutters may no longer be optional".

Lake O Real Low

"Lake Okeechobee over the weekend dropped to an all-time low for this time of year, worsening South Florida's water supply problems and adding urgency to tougher water restrictions expected on Friday." "Lake Okeechobee's level hits all-time low for this time of year".

Rep. Don Davis

"Rep. Don Davis, who suffered underwent surgery for a brain tumor several weeks ago, was released from a rehab hospital over the weekend and is back home." "Rep. Davis returns home after rehab".

Giulani

"The Giulani campaign announces state senators Mike Fasano, Dennis Jones, and Burt Saunders are endorsing Rudy. Saunders is the new name." "Senators for Rudy".

Whatever

"Marching Rattlers and Obama".

Brogan

"Florida Atlantic University President Frank Brogan acknowledged for the first time Monday that he ended the contract of chief fundraiser Lawrence Davenport, thus entitling the former employee to $577,950 in severance pay." "For the first time, Brogan admits he ended Fundraiser's FAU contract". See also "Brogan owes an answer".

Insurance

"A bill that would allow Citizens Property Insurance to expand further and solidify its tax-exempt status moved forward Monday with full approval from the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee. The bill got a big push from Gov. Charlie Crist, who made a surprise appearance in the last minutes of the committee meeting to lobby for the bill, which was originally proposed by Sen. Rudy Garcia, a Hialeah Republican." "Senate bills gain ground". See also "Crist nudges bill toward vote", "Insurance bills clear Senate panel" and "Crist surprises committee to lobby Citizens bill".

Talk On

"A measure that would have made it against the law to talk on a cell phone or send text messages while driving was put on hold in the state Senate on Monday. A return call for the bill isn't likely this year." "Senate Committee Puts Cell Phone Driving Bill On Hold".

Solutions

"Across the United States violent attacks on homeless people increased to 142 in 2006 (resulting in 20 deaths and five rapes) from 60 such assaults in 1999, according to the National Coalition for the Homeless. ... Florida had 48 attacks in 2006 -- more than any other state. And 84 percent of the assailants were under 25, many still in their early teens." "Seeking solutions to prevent attacks by youth".

"Double Rent" Bill

"Consumer groups have blasted it as the 'double rent' bill. Supporters say it would actually help renters. Either way, a Florida Apartment Association-backed proposal to change state landlord-tenant law got a new lease on life Monday. Backed in the House by DeLand Republican Pat Patterson, the proposal would let landlords collect the equivalent of two months' rent when a tenant cuts out early on a lease -- even if the landlord has found someone else to rent the apartment." "Bill seeks landlord, tenant compromise". See also "Lawmakers may add to broken lease fee".

One Way To Deal With The Problem

"As foreclosures continue to mount in Florida, homeowners should know filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy can help them hang on to their homes while catching up on late mortgage payments, state lawmakers said. The Senate Committee on Banking and Insurance thinks it is a lender's responsibility to inform homeowners of that right. On Monday, the committee approved a bill that would require banks, mortgage lenders and other lien holders to include the information when they notify a homeowner of their intent to foreclose." "Rights sought for homeowners in debt".

"Lockup in lieu of treatment for mentally ill inmates"

"Here's a dose of grim reality: One of the nation's largest psychiatric facilities is in South Florida -- and it's not a hospital. It's the Miami-Dade County Jail." "A Florida injustice".

Wine

"An effort to clamp down on the fledgling industry of shipping wine directly to Floridians' doorsteps began moving through the Legislature on Monday. Prodded by Florida's alcohol distributors and retailers, the Senate Regulated Industries Committee approved a bill that would prohibit out-of-state wineries that produce more than 250,000 gallons of wine a year from shipping directly to consumers." "Bill seeks to limit shipping of wine".

"High-occupancy-vehicle Lanes"

"There may be some merit to a proposed pilot project that would convert high-occupancy-vehicle lanes to toll lanes in parts of Broward and Miami-Dade counties. But so far convincing evidence is lacking, so legislators should proceed very cautiously." "Transportation".

Water Board

"Crist's first two appointments to the South Florida Water Management District board are good at least for one reason. They replace Irela Bagué and Alice J. Carlson, who last month - right before imposing water restrictions - voted in favor of a water permit for an unneeded Palm Beach County golf course that could suck up to 209 million gallons each year from the Everglades." "Complete water board with what it needs most".

Cracking Down on Inflated "AP" Claims

"It doesn't take a genius to figure out from the abrupt explosion of advanced placement courses in public schools, that some may be simply slapping the tag 'advanced' on the same old curriculum.

That's why it's wise for the College Board, which manages national standardized tests, to perform an audit of every advanced placement course being offered in the country to ensure that students actually are doing college-level work in high schools.

which has been a leader in the advanced placement surge. Under former Gov. Jeb Bush's administration, the number of students enrolled in advanced placement courses more than doubled. Teachers, who are paid bonuses for teaching the courses.

But the College Board now suspects that some advanced placement courses around the country don't include a rigorous, college-level curriculum and it's asking teachers to get their syllabus and course materials approved before using the advanced placement label.

"State Neglect

The Tampa Trib editorial board: "The polluting discharges at Piney Point phosphate plant have finally stopped. But the public has little to celebrate in this saga of industry abuse, state neglect and federal indifference." "The Saga Of Piney Point Pollution".

Gimme, Gimme

Pamela Hasterok: "Reaching the middle of the road is a long trip for a Legislature dominated by conservative ideologues. But the governor, with his media spotlight and public popularity, is moving them there." "Crist says 'gimme' and usually gets".

House Republicans want to roll back local government property-tax collections to the 2003-04 budget year and limit annual spending increases to the inflation rate plus new construction. They want a statewide vote on ending the schools tax for homesteads, making up some of that by increasing the state sales tax from 6 percent to 7 percent. They want a statewide vote on requiring each county to decide on another shift of taxation from homesteads that could raise the sales tax another 1.5 cents. They want a $25,000 tangible property-tax exemption for businesses.

Senate Democrats reject any increase in the sales tax. They would cut local spending less, though still impose annual spending limits, and they would ask Save Our Homes-protected Floridians to double the amount their value could rise in a year. They favor the business tax break, and they want to let homesteaders take some of their Save Our Homes break when they move.

It's a better, fairer plan, but the Democrats are in the minority. Senate Republicans promise a plan soon. Since getting any amendment onto the ballot would require three-fourths approval in each chamber, however, Democrats can block any plan they don't like.

the governor should say now that he intends to keep calling special sessions until he gets a responsible one. Otherwise, four weeks won't be enough. Either way, is this how Florida should make tax policy?

"Ticktock Time"

"With half a session to go, Florida legislators face property taxes, the budget, college tuition, stem cells and voting machines." "For lawmakers, ticktock time". See also "Legislators optimistic about rest of session" and "Lawmakers enter second half, budget dominated this week".

Promises, Promises

"Remember the legislative session in January that state lawmakers held to tame vicious property-insurance rates?"

Many lawmakers probably wish you've forgotten it by now -- especially the guarantees they made that followed it.

Rates will plummet, they promised. And by 22 percent to 24 percent.

They ended up dipping a paltry 3 percent to 14 percent, however, in requests made to state regulators by Florida's largest private insurers.

No one still paying exorbitant rates has likely forgotten the session and the promises. And no one will likely forgive lawmakers for promising much but delivering little, either, if they don't do something in the current legislative session to provide significantly more relief.

"Crist's 100 Days"

"Crist on Wednesday will reach 100 days in office. But with the legislative session entering its final weeks and his signature issue of property-tax reform still unsettled, there won't be much time to bask in what even political rivals have called his remarkably successful start." "Taxes tangle Crist's 100 days". Meanwhile, "'People's governor' optimistic".

The "I-word"

"In legislative lingo it's referred to as the "I-word," and the mere mention of it can send shivers down a Florida politician's spine."

It's a personal "income tax," a revenue source tapped by most state governments but outlawed by the Florida Constitution since 1924, when the Sunshine State was on the threshold of a historic land boom.

The idea behind the ban was to lure Northerners with income and wealth to Florida. It succeeded.

It became a perennial given in state politics. Today, Florida remains one of only nine states without a personal income tax, and it would take a statewide vote to alter that.

With homeowners this year clamoring for tax relief, legislators are casting around for a way to cut taxes on homes and other types of real estate, but so far remain stumped over how to replace the lost revenue. Some legislators privately say a personal income tax would be the fairest and best way because it would tax each Floridian according to his or her ability to pay -- but most Republicans and Democrats agree there is neither the political will nor the requisite popular support for such a drastic change in the constitution and public life.

Only A Start

the Sun-Sentinel editorial board contends that State lawmakers should consider a "bill that would repeal the current requirement that a felon's civil rights must be restored as a condition of employment. Decoupling that condition from the clemency process would end a cumbersome barrier to employment for many and return the oversight of employment and licensing to the state regulatory agencies where it belongs." "Felons' Rights".

"Chamber the Florida House of Developer Representatives"

"It can be confusing to watch the Florida House work this session. On the one hand, representatives are proposing legislation to give cities and counties total control of land use permitting for residential and commercial development".

On the other, lawmakers are attempting to strip counties of their own wetland rules and ability to limit mining. But look closely; there's a common theme.

Each change favors developers, miners or other private special interests to the detriment of irreplaceable public resources. If the bills pass, it would be fitting to rename the chamber the Florida House of Developer Representatives. But hopefully the House hasn't been overrun with shills for these special interests. Apparently the House Environment and Natural Resources Council has been.

No Local Control

"Lawmakers are considering legislation that could limit or prevent local governments from regulating limestone rock mining. A Senate bill would require local boards to address how land use or permit decisions on mining proposals would impact rock supply for the local area, region or the state. But a stronger House version would block counties or municipalities from enacting or enforcing any rule that prohibits or prevents operation or construction of quarries on land zoned or designated for mining." "Legislation could give state control over limestone rock mining".

Tourons

The Tampa Trib editors argue that "Florida should be spending more to remind people that Florida is a fun place to spend money." "Rivals Lure Sunshine Tourists As Florida Skimps On Advertising". See also "Tourism tweak".

Mouthpieces

"Today, cities, counties and colleges seeking a bigger slice of the federal pie against competitors are turning in greater numbers to experienced Capitol Hill advocates to present their sometimes highly specialized priorities to congressional committees and federal agencies." "Public Entities Spend More On Mouthpieces In D.C.".

Another Jebacy

"The manatee, Florida's imperiled environmental icon, last year suffered its most dismal year on record."

Of a population of about 3,200, 416 died in 2006, the highest number of deaths recorded in 30 years of statistics. Many died in collisions with boat propellers.

Now, according to an internal memo, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has been drafting plans under which the celebrated marine mammals would lose their protection as an endangered species.

The Miami Herald reported in June 2006 that the state's seven-member Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission had approved ''down-listing'' the manatee in a unanimous vote and that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service was in the process of reevaluating that designation. All seven members of the commission were appointed by then-Gov. Jeb Bush.

The planned reclassification of the slow-moving sea cows from ''endangered'' to ''threatened'' is expected to elicit a barrage of criticism from environmental groups who see it as a part of the Bush administration's push to poke holes in the Endangered Species Act.

850,000 Illegals

"More than 3.2 million foreigners of different immigration statuses and national origins lived in Florida in 2005, the last year for which updated figures are available. An estimated 850,000 were in the state illegally, but most have some sort of temporary or legal status." "Immigrants see Florida as a path to American dream".

Talk, Talk

"State legislators have a chance to help save women from cancer. Instead, they have chosen to just talk about how women could be saved." "Choose life? Not here".

Off Topic

Tom Blackburn, one of the best in the business, hits a home run this morning: "Tribute well-deserved, at the time".

"Dramatic Sign"

"In a dramatic sign of the shrinking American role in the world sugar market, the historic mill that U.S. Sugar Corp. opened just north of Pahokee in 1962 is to be shut down, dismantled and sold in parts to foreign producers." "U.S. Sugar closes historic Bryant Mill as industry struggles in Florida".

"One of the Nation's Worst"

"Florida is being judged as one of the nation's worst pre-K programs, what one national expert called a "poster child" for spreading standards and money too thin." "Florida's pre-K promises unkept".

Mahoney and Buchanan

"Although U.S. Rep. Tim Mahoney, a Democrat, sided recently with his party to set a withdrawal date for Iraq, he said he is convinced the United States will have soldiers there for 20 years. Rep. Vern Buchanan, a Republican, went the other way, opposing a withdrawal, yet he says the Bush administration has nine months to show progress or lose his already "tenuous" support for the troop surge that began earlier this year." "Rookies defend voting on Iraq".

Jeremy Wallace reports that "Mahoney is finding out that being one of the most targeted members of Congress has its advantages. National Republicans have started campaign blitzes against him, sent White House political strategist Karl Rove to his district, and marked him as one of their top five targets for defeat in 2008. Yet, when Mahoney was in Port Charlotte last week, he was relaxed and laughing.".

Youth Gangs

"Youth gangs in Florida are spreading from urban areas into rural sections of the state, where the recruiting is good." "Youth gangs growing in Florida's rural areas".

Budget Fight

"This year's biggest budget fight in the Florida Legislature won't be over schools, health care or state-employee salaries.It's whether to shave more from your property-tax bill or cut time off your commute to work."

Facing the first year-ending revenue decline in three decades, the Florida Senate is pushing a plan to lubricate Florida's sluggish growth engine by pouring billions of dollars into speeding up construction projects from toll roads in Miami-Dade County to libraries, college campuses and an Opera House in Sarasota. ...

Conversely, House Republicans have countered with a private-sector alternative focused on tax cuts, most notably a $6 billion reduction in local property taxes.

"Wildly Different Premiums"

"If a mechanic and a lawyer are the same age, have similar driving records and drive the same kind of car, they should pay roughly the same amount for auto insurance, right? Not necessarily. A report by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation says that some auto insurers use education and occupation as factors for determining rates, and that the result can be wildly different premiums for people with similar driving experiences." "When bias results, review the input".

Pension Investments

"Eight state senators want the Florida pension fund to dump all investments in multi-national corporations doing business in Iran. Lacking a House companion, their bill (SB 2250) is probably a long shot. But it makes a statement. The State Board of Administration's investment portfolio - now estimated at $129 billion - has been used to make moral points before, at some expense." "No pension money for Iran, say lawmakers". See also "Legislators: Keep pension money away from firms linked to Iran, Sudan".