I'd hate to see what he considers to be the "dark ages"

Charlie, who apparently still inhales, tells us that "we're living in a magic time: 'the golden age of the Florida Legislature.'"

Since last fall, three rounds of budget cuts caused by the drop in tax collections have taken $900-million out of public education in Florida, a state that already lags in nearly every measurable academic standard. If you're poor or disabled, it could be worse.

What do we have here? A courageous show of fiscal responsibility by the Republican legislature and governor, or irresponsibility of epic proportions?

Legislators cut money for foster children, adoptive parents and people with epilepsy. They really did reduce funding to the state-run School for the Deaf and Blind, explaining that it was the same as the 1.8-percent cut to public schools.

The 2008 session ended just as it began. Republicans congratulated themselves on their fiscal discipline and opposition to new taxes while Democrats decried the GOP's refusal to consider revenue options like increasing one of the lowest cigarette taxes in the country or closing even a few of those 250-odd sales tax exemptions.

"Give us your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free" ...

... and what will we do with them here in Florida?

"In the six months since Izquierdo regained custody of his young daughter after a high-profile court case, the two have developed a deep bond. It is one they never shared when the girl lived in Cuba with her mother, let alone after she first came to the U.S. and sparked an intense, international custody battle."

Yet in reclaiming one child, Izquierdo has found himself separated from nearly everything and everyone else he loves.

He lives alone with her in the U.S., jobless - a pariah to many Cuban-Americans who cannot fathom why he would want to return with the girl to the poverty-seeped, communist island their own families fled.

Izquierdo's pregnant wife Yanara Alvarez and their 7-year-old daughter Rachel returned to Cuba so Alvarez could take advantage of the country's free medical care during their son's birth. Mother and daughter have yet to receive permission from U.S. immigration authorities to return to Miami, Izquierdo's attorney said.

Subsidizing "risk taking" entrepreneurs

"DOT officials will officially have the authority to pay stipends to losing bidders under a bill now on its way to Gov. Charlie Crist." "Lawmakers: Pay losing contract bidders". See also "Senator trying to save bid losers".

Too bad they our Legislators couldn't find the same energy viz. decent legislation to recompense those who have been wrongfully imprisoned.

FCAT Follies

"For Florida's public school students, a minor revolution may soon be coming in the classroom."

The dreaded FCAT could be moved to later in the year to give children more time to learn the subjects they are tested on.

And the exam's emphasis would be downgraded when it comes to calculating the grades given to the state's high schools, accounting in the future for only 50 percent of their A to F rating, with the remainder based on the graduation rate and other scholastic measures.

That's the upshot of the first major revamp of public education in nearly a decade approved Friday by the Florida Legislature, which also decided that the state must be more specific in what children are expected to learn at each grade level.

The Legislature also agreed to expand the Corporate Tax Credit program, which allows corporations to get tax credits if they donate funds to help send poor children to private schools. The plan would allow the state to hand out up to $118 million in tax credits — $30 million more than allowed this year.

Lawmakers were not able to reach agreement on a bill that would have prevented nepotism in charter school hirings.

Your RPOF in action

"Senate Republicans agreed to an 'academic freedom' bill that offered protection for teachers who challenged evolution. House Republicans, however, wanted to require science instructors to include a 'critical analysis' of evolution in classes. With lawmakers failing to bridge the divide in their debate, both bills died as lawmakers adjourned for the year Friday." "Lesson plans for evolution remain intact".

Them librul newspapers are at it again

Here's a shocker, corporate hacks don't support a social program - the The Orlando Sentinel editorial board this morning couldn't resist editorializing about an obscure proposal in Congress: "If deficits aren't already big enough, some want extra paid leave for fathers".

The editors' position are of course entirely consistent with their mentors at the Florida Chamber of Commerce (who, by the way, aren't sure about whether global warming exists). The editors' reasoning:

Other countries with much higher taxes give employees benefits like this, but most U.S. employers don't.

"Less ambitious"

"Despite an attempt from House Republicans to reignite divisive property tax battles with their Senate counterparts, lawmakers agreed this morning to a package of less ambitious changes." "Property tax bill goes to Crist".

Idiot of the week: Florida Chamber President says "climate change may or may not be true"

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board shares this with us this morning: "Both the Florida Chamber and Mr. Martinez, scheduled to meet the day after the seminar, say they know well what's at stake. The senator says he's convinced humans contribute to climate change. Florida Chamber President Mark Wilson says 'climate change may or may not be true,' but that the reality is Florida needs to find enough energy to support another 10 million people by 2030." "It's important for Sen. Martinez to support smart energy initiative".

Saying that "climate change may or may not be true" is tin foil hat territory - why is the Florida Chamber of Commerce given any credence by the Florida media?

Citrus

The Palm Beach Post editorial Board: "Some experts say the $9 billion citrus industry needs a minimum of 500,000 acres of trees to remain viable; it has about 550,000 now. The Legislature's $2 million for research is a modest down payment to protect an industry that provides 78,000 jobs and also the state's signature icon. What would Florida be without its orange trees?" "Save the citrus industry".

Oh well

"Central Florida might have lost more than a 61-mile commuter-rail system Friday when the Florida Legislature failed to approve the train that would have run from DeLand to Orlando and Poinciana." "Train wreck: Hopes for Orlando-area commuter rail dashed on last day of legislative session".

On a related note, Daniel Ruth writes that "judging from the solid waste generated by some first-rate public relations flackery, you would think the good citizens of Central Florida arise every morning and gaze longingly out their windows in the unrequited hope that someday soon a CSX choo-choo will come blowing by to turn their pastureland into a teaming hub of locomotion." "Who's Against The CSX Deal? Why, Nobody!"

No fat kids

"Bill makes gym class mandatory for middle schoolers".

"Revived at the literal last minute"

"After being pronounced dead by the prime sponsor, a bill providing more help for families with an autistic child was ", and gained final approval in the House's final vote before adjourning Friday. " "Autism bill gets nod". See also "Senate's weaker autism bill passes".

Brilliant

"For those who need support, Florida now has Qwitter, an online service that allows you to update friends on your progress moment-by-moment through the networking Web site Twitter." "Florida turns to freebies, Web for anti-smoking campaign".

The "values" crowd

"Justice Thomas, along with his ideological soulmates Antonin Scalia and Samuel Alito, found nothing wrong with Indiana's 2005 law requiring a state or federal government-issued photo ID for voting, even if poor - and mostly minority - voters may have to spend money to get one."

To those justices, it might as well be 1937, when an earlier court refused to strike down the poll tax that Southern states began using after the Civil War to disenfranchise African-Americans.

Florida allows voters to use nine forms of valid photo identification: a driver license; a Florida ID; a passport; a debit or credit card; and a military, student, retirement center, neighborhood association or public assistance ID. Last year, though, the Legislature removed two forms. That's where it should stop. Florida has enough barriers to voting without trying to be like Indiana.

Good riddance

"Marco Rubio, the son of Cuban exiles who climbed the political ranks to become Florida's first Cuban-American speaker of the state House of Representatives, bade an emotional farewell Friday afternoon, choking back tears as he spoke about his motivation to succeed: his parents." "Rubio's emotional farewell".

"1 for 2"

"In the last day of the legislative session, Miami-Dade lawmakers went one-for-two on affordable housing bills they've pushed throughout the 60-day session." "Local legislators go 1 for 2 on housing bills".

"Can we have our money back, please?"

The Palm Beach Post editorial Board: "Can we have our money back, please? The state is investing $15,000 to find out. Unlike about $2 billion in other investments having to do with the State Board of Administration, this one makes sense."

Last year, J.P. Morgan and Lehman Brothers [where Jebbie now "works"] sold the board - which (allegedly) oversees Florida's panoply of pension and investment funds - about $2 billion in securities whose value collapsed days later. Financial officers for local governments learned of the weak investments and started a run on one of the state's funds. Last week, the state agreed to pay the West Palm Beach law firm of Berman DeValerio Pease Tabacco Burt & Pucillo $15,000 to determine whether Florida has grounds for a lawsuit against the brokers.

The State Board of Administration was not a federally qualified buyer for roughly a third of the rotten securities. On the surface, that's more proof of poor leadership by former SBA Director Coleman Stipanovich, who got the job because of connections to former Gov. Jeb Bush. Mr. Stipanovich's brother, one of the state's leading Republicans, advised Katherine Harris during the 2000 recount.

The glaring political question now is whether Florida was a sucker for Lehman Brothers because Jeb Bush took a job there shortly after leaving office.

Quiet

"Quietly and with little public notice, more than 250 judges as well as two dozen state attorneys and public defenders won re-election Friday as the qualifying period for judicial offices ended." "Unopposed judges quietly keep their seats".

"Still unclear ..."

"A priority of Gov. Charlie Crist, his 'Cover Florida' plan was merged with a House 'Florida Health Choices' plan that also creates a state-funded $1.5-million corporation to manage the program."

Talks between the governor's aides and the House bogged down on Crist's insistence that the corporation's 12 political appointees comply with ethics and public meeting laws, and that health insurers not be allowed to serve because of possible conflicts of interest.

Still unclear, however, is how well Crist's plan will work and what exactly consumers will be able to buy for $150 a month. In the next couple of months, the state will invite insurance companies to submit proposals.

"We'll see"

"At the beginning of the legislative session, Senate leaders fast-tracked a resolution to weaken the Florida Board of Governors. With one day of session to go that resolution is at a crawl, and it will never reach the November ballot if House members don't unite behind it. The Senate has approved the proposal (SJR 2308), and House leaders will only say of its fate, 'We'll see.'" "House leaders say 'we'll see' about BOG bill".

"National leader in erecting barriers to voting"

The Palm Beach Post editorial Board lays it on the line: "Florida has become a national leader in erecting barriers to voting. Not only have Republican legislators failed to shake the legacy of 2000, they've made it worse. "At every step of the process," said attorney Wendy Weiser of the Brennan Center for Justice in New York, 'there's a hurdle in Florida.'"

GOP legislators were upset in 2004 over the success of a grass-roots effort to register voters and pass a constitutional amendment that increased the minimum wage. One year later, the Legislature passed the first restraint on registrations. It was blocked in court. The Legislature tweaked it in 2007 and passed it again, shutting down the league and other not-for-profits that register voters.

Florida already trails most of the nation, with only about 65 percent of potential voters registered as of 2006, down from 72 percent in 2004. The rates are lower for minorities, the poor and young people. Those demographics benefit Republicans.

Despite an agreement to delay, Secretary of State Kurt Browning announced in March that he would begin enforcing the anti-registration law. He reversed himself this week, entering into a consent order that allows registration to continue unfettered until July. But the law, subject to a lawsuit, still could be in effect to block registration drives before the presidential election.

Florida's efforts to limit access continue with the no-match/no-vote law. It disenfranchises voters when registrations do not exactly match government databases. ...

Florida's reputation for partisan election policy dates to then-Secretary of State Katherine Harris' effort to deny legitimate votes in 2000. The state's use of rules to block vote-counting and disenfranchise ex-felons showed that politics mattered more than helping all people vote. The recent record shows that nothing has changed.

"Will it all work?"

"Up to 3.8 million uninsured Floridians could soon buy inexpensive health-coverage packages, after legislators tentatively agreed Thursday to a two-step plan serving individuals as well as small businesses."

The legislation blends Gov. Charlie Crist's proposal, offering stripped-down plans for as little as $150 a month, along with House Speaker Marco Rubio's proposal to establish a public-private corporation that would act as human-resources department and a virtual marketplace for health plans.

Crist and the state Senate initially balked at the corporation concept, saying it created too much bureaucracy and too little regulation.

Under the compromise brokered between Crist and the House, the Senate plans to amend the legislation Friday to ensure that: The state Office of Insurance Regulation would have more say, employees would have more time to keep their current health plans if an employer switches to cheaper ones, and the new corporation would abide by open-records laws and be free of industry board members who would otherwise profit from their votes.

House leaders say they'll likely take the legislation and pass it Friday unless some unexpected poison pill ruins the deal. But even if the House signs off on the proposal, the big question remains: Will it all work?

"Curiouser and curiouser"

The Miami Herald editorial board: "The case of the $10-million congressional appropriation for a road in Florida that mysteriously found its way into a transportation funding bill gets curiouser and curiouser. Nearly three years after the bill was enacted, Rep. Don Young, R-Alaska, has finally been shamed into explaining his role in the process, but his speech on the floor of the House this week was a self-serving, exculpatory declaration that raises more questions than it answers." "More questions about `road to perdition'".

"A refreshing alternative to the GOP mind-set"

The Palm Beach Post editorial Board: "The [petition signature] revocation law emerged from the 2007 legislative session. That year, the Legislature tried unsuccessfully to make it harder to gather signatures with paid help. A year earlier, voters approved a Republican proposal to require 60''percent approval for constitutional amendments. The appeals court has offered a refreshing alternative to the GOP mind-set: In matters related to the constitution, the constitution matters." "Hostile to constitution".

Let's pretend we care

"It might only create a task force, but Florida lawmakers gave final approval Thursday to a bill designed to prevent accidents like an explosion that killed two people at a Daytona Beach wastewater-treatment plant." "Worker safety bill heads to governor".

"Philosophy" or brain dead mantra?

The Tampa Tribune editorial board: "The guiding philosophy [sic] among Republican lawmakers in Tallahassee is 'no new taxes.' That message has led to more tax cuts for longtime homeowners and the threat of a higher tax load for businesses."

Confronted with obvious inequity, lawmakers remain afraid of any change that might violate the simplistic slogan.

One unfortunate result is higher taxes for in-state businesses than for out-of-state firms that sell by mail. The Legislature continues to refuse to try to collect taxes on Internet and catalog sales, though it doesn't miss a dime of taxes owed by in-state retailers.

Florida has taxed mom-and-pop motels nearly out of existence.

It allows multistate companies to shelter profits in low-tax states, while levying income taxes on Florida companies at the full rate.

More intrusive government restraints on entrepreneurial "spirit"

"Casino boats such as the Big M and SunCruz might have to refrain from dumping waste while they are out at sea." "Bill would regulate casino boat waste dumping".

Nutz!*

"Florida lawmakers have killed a proposal to bar drivers from displaying metal replicas of bull testicles on their vehicles." "Proposed Truck Nutz ban fails to muster support".

- - - - - - - - - -
With apologies to General Mcauliffe

Beware "fraudulent foreclosure rescue services"

"State lawmakers passed a bill to protect delinquent borrowers from losing their homes and money to fraudulent foreclosure rescue services." "Foreclosure fraud bill OK'd".

"Irrelevant proviso"

The Miami Herald editorial board: "The [compensation] bill has a so-called 'clean hands' provision that would deny payment to someone who is wrongfully convicted but who has a prior felony conviction. This part of the bill is unnecessary and irrelevant. It is what happens when lawmakers allow politics to get in the way of clear thinking. When the state convicts someone and sends that person to prison for a crime he didn't commit, the state has a duty to make amends with compensation. Any prior, unrelated felony should have nothing to do with the compensation." "Partial step toward righting wrongs".

"Tough battles"

"Many of Florida's Congress members will face tough battles holding onto their seats this year as Democrats and Republicans compete for control of the U.S. House." "Many competitive congressional races will be on Fla. ballots".

Pruitt

"Senate President Pruitt honored, speaks of his son's death".

"Bold leadership"?

"Confronting the frantic end of the 60-day lawmaking session tonight, Senate Majority Leader Dan Webster, R- Winter Garden, conceded there was only a slim chance he could persuade his chamber to pass the legal protections that CSX Corp. has demanded before selling its 61.5 miles of Central Florida rail line. 'I'm pretty well resigned [to defeat],' said Webster, who placed the chances of passage today at '10 percent or less.'" "It's decision day for commuter rail". See also "Commuter rail stuck in the Senate" and "CSX Deal Runs Out Of Steam".

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board: "Today the fate of Central Florida's chance for commuter rail hangs by a thread in Tallahassee. It will take bold leadership to save it." "Siplin, Crist and Lynn are critical to today's momentous commuter-rail decision".

On the other hand, the The St. Petersburg Times editorial board argues that "the Florida Senate did right Wednesday by refusing to give away the store to CSX as part of building a commuter rail system in Orlando. From the start, the measure was a testament to how the state should not write laws, craft transportation policy or engage in partnerships with the private sector. Let's hope, with one day left in session, the project stays dead." "Senators wisely derail CXS plan".

Tweaks only

"Customers of Citizens Property Insurance won't face an increase in premiums for another year under an insurance package overwhelmingly approved by the Legislature on Thursday and sent to the governor. But the measure, dubbed the 'Homeowners Bill of Rights Act,' offers no similar protections for customers of private insurers." "Insurance gets tweaks, not reform". See also "Lawmakers freeze rates, tighten insurance restrictions".

Whatever

"Florida Legislature adopts stiff new penalties in gang fight".

Portables

"School and county officials in high-growth counties say they are facing an uphill battle in fighting a provision in a growth-management bill that would allow portable classrooms to be counted toward school concurrency." "Lawmakers: Allow portables to offset permanent classrooms".

Choice politics

Sue Carlton notes that "a particularly disturbing detail of the [unsuccessful ultrasound] bill would have exempted a woman from the ultrasound requirement if she is the victim of rape, incest, domestic violence or human trafficking — if she could provide documents to prove it. That means a restraining order, police report, medical records or court papers." "Abortion bill's close defeat leaves a chill".

Big of 'em

"Score one for Florida's panthers, black bears and gopher tortoises. Following on the heels of unanimous Senate support last week, the House on Wednesday voted unanimously to give the state's popular Florida Forever land conservation program another 10 years of life to help protect wildlife and wetlands from encroaching development." "Conservation Program Spared".

In house MJ

"One of Florida's largest cash crops -- 'grow house' marijuana -- is being targeted in new legislation that state lawmakers swiftly approved Thursday and sent to Gov. Charlie Crist for his likely signature." "Bill targets indoor marijuana growers".

Tutors

"Companies that tutor kids in low-performing Miami-Dade schools will get a special break under an amendment tucked into a bill to grade the effectiveness of federally financed tutoring." "For-profit tutors could get break".

Ask the air head

"Ask the Governor: Lotto funds must be tied to education".

"Tech-savvy pranksters and scammers known as spoofers"

"Score a point for untainted Caller ID: the Legislature approved a proposed law Thursday cracking down on tech-savvy pranksters and scammers known as spoofers." "Unamused lawmakers hope bill makes spoofers go poof".

"Last-ditch effort"

"As ethanol-blended fuel begins pouring into Florida, the state's gas stations are making a last-ditch effort to ensure that consumers can still buy regular gas." "No-ethanol measure advances".

Choice politics

"Women seeking a first-trimester abortion in Florida will not be required to have an ultrasound. The measure was defeated Wednesday in a rare 20-20 tie vote in the Florida Senate. Seven Republicans joined with Democrats to defeat the measure." "Added rule for abortion blocked". See also "Abortion bill fails in split Senate", "Abortion bill nixed by tie vote in Florida Senate", "Abortion ultrasound bill fails to pass Florida Senate" and "Florida Senate rejects bill requiring ultrasounds before abortions".

The Tampa Tribune editorial board: "Overreaching Abortion Bill Stopped".

"Desperately seeking a spot on the ticket"

The Palm Beach Post editorial Board: "Giving drivers a summer vacation from gasoline taxes is politically appealing and would be profoundly wrong. According to AAA, the average price for regular in this area is $3.73 per gallon. That's up 30 cents in a month and 75 cents in a year, and it's not even summer travel season. The federal gas tax is 18.4 cents; the state levies 15.6 cents. If Washington and Tallahassee suspended the tax from, say, Memorial Day to Labor Day, drivers would be ... about where they were a month ago."

John McCain favors a gas-tax holiday. Gov. Crist, desperately seeking a spot on the ticket, agrees. Maybe Gov. Crist thinks that the lost road money wouldn't be his problem next year. But it still would be Florida's problem.

Are crosses OK?

"The Florida House voted emphatically Wednesday to junk a requirement that state agencies spend up to a half-percent of building costs on art, but chances of final passage appear doubtful." "Florida House votes to junk 'art in public places' spending".

"Homeowners' bill of rights"

"The full House and Senate are expected to approve it before the annual legislative session ends Friday, and then send it to Gov. Charlie Crist."

The bill extends the rate freeze for Citizens Property Insurance Corp., the state's largest home insurer, by one year, to January 2010.

It doubles maximum fines for insurers that violate state law. The Senate originally wanted to increase the fines by much more.

It prohibits insurers from using arbitration panels when there's a disagreement with state insurance officials over rates.

It extends by one year, to January 2010, a provision from last year's insurance bill that requires insurers to get state approval before raising property insurance rates.

It requires insurers to notify state regulators 90 days before dropping more than 10,000 homeowner policies in one year.

It requires insurers to use state-approved methods to predict the risk of hurricanes, a key factor in setting rates.

"Warmed over ideology"

The South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board: "Thanks to the Florida Budget and Tax Reform Commission, Floridians will have to grapple with seven ballot questions in November that seem more about pushing warmed over ideology than implementing meaningful fiscal reform." "Florida's Budget and Tax Reform Commission isn't living up to its name".

Pay "no attention to donors" behind the curtain

"Like his colleagues, Rep. Stan Mayfield is not allowed to raise campaign money when the Florida Legislature is in session, because of the perception that lawmakers would be trading votes for donations."

But that has not stopped lobbyists and corporations with business before the Vero Beach Republican from giving $96,000 to his political committee since the session began in March.

Mayfield, a powerful committee chairman who wants to be Florida's next agriculture commissioner, legally sidesteps the fundraising ban by steering those unrestricted donations to a political committee known as a 527, a reference to the section of the IRS code that regulates such committees.

They are not affected by the ban on fundraising during sessions and are not subject to the state's $500 contribution limit that applies to legislators' own campaigns.

Progress Energy gave $20,000, for example. Another $20,000 came from Florida Power & Light. Prominent Tallahassee lobbyist Wade Hopping gave $10,000.

Mayfield said he has stepped down from the group during session and insists he has paid no attention to donors.

A sleazy little retirement slid in for Young

"Times aren't so bad. Just ask Gov. Charlie Crist or his friend, U.S. Rep. C.W. Bill Young. Tucked into Florida's proposed $66-billion state budget is $2.5-million for a St. Petersburg College institute [the C.W. Bill Young Institute of Government] expected to be named for and eventually led by Young, R-Indian Shores." "Even in shrinking budget, there's $2.5-million for Rep. Young earmark".

"Deal clings to life"

"For a while Wednesday, Central Florida's commuter rail appeared doomed."

With the 61.5-mile DeLand-to-Celebration project facing as many as two dozen potentially crippling amendments, Senate Transportation Chairman Carey Baker, R-Eustis, announced he would strip it from the Senate's massive transportation bill when the measure comes up for debate today.

The move — coming just two days before the legislative session is scheduled to end — threatened to derail a 2-year-old deal to run commuter trains through the heart of Central Florida by 2010.

But by midevening, supporters were holding out hope that they had found a solution. They said language restoring the project could be added back to the bill once it reaches the House, which would then send it back to the Senate for a straight up-or-down vote Friday.

"Part of the way there"

The St. Petersburg Times editorial board: "A bill to compensate people wrongfully incarcerated isn't everything that justice would have demanded, but it gets us part of the way there." "Exonerated win measure of justice".

Same song

The South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board: "'Swanee River' to remain Florida's state song".

Raw sewage

"South Florida counties must eventually stop pumping hundreds of millions of gallons of sewage every day into the ocean, under a bill the Legislature passed Wednesday that also sticks the counties with the $3 billion cost." "S. Fla. stuck with $3 billion sewage bill". See also "Florida governor to get bill phasing out discharge of sewage into Atlantic Ocean".

Water war

"Florida environmental officials Wednesday blasted a federal proposal to reduce the water flowing from Georgia into the Apalachicola River, calling it deadly for rare species and the seafood industry." "Georgia water restrictions threaten Florida ecosystem, officials say".

Florida rules

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board: "Florida's system is so flawed that even gun-rights advocates such as the National Rifle Association have complained. And 15 states, including South Carolina, refuse to recognize Florida's concealed-weapons permit." "Our position: Florida's standards for concealed-weapons permit are dangerous".

Geller

"Geller said he's not ready to quit politics. ... So, next on his agenda: a race for the Broward County Commission in 2010." "Florida Sen. Steve Geller, D-Cooper City, leaving office after 20 years".

Budget blues

"State Nixes Local Requests". See also "Tallahassee projects survive state budget cuts".

Florida Forever?

"Spartan State Budget Includes Millions For Florida Forever".

Bullying

"After three years of trying, the anti-bullying bill inspired by the suicide of a Cape Coral teenager who was bullied at school passed Florida's Senate unanimously and is on its way to Gov. Charlie Crist." "Anti-bullying bill passes Florida Senate with unanimous vote".

Embarrassing

"Third trial set for January in Liberty City terror plot case".

Green sailing

"Calling it 'history-making,' Gov. Charlie Crist said he will sign a landmark energy bill aimed at curtailing the state's impact on global climate change. The Senate unanimously approved the legislation Wednesday, a day after the House also did so unanimously." "State's first 'green' energy bill sails in Senate". See also "Energy bill heads to Crist" and "Clean-energy bill on its way to Crist".

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board: "Florida and Washington should be following science on solar-power breakthroughs".

Tax cut or "empty stunt"

"Sen. Mike Haridopolos on Wednesday got an amendment attached to a bill that would cut the tax on cellphone services in a move criticized by some Democrats as an empty stunt." "Amendment to bill cuts cellphone tax".

Castor scores another one

The Tampa Tribune editorial board: "Castor deserves kudos for looking out for families in time of need."

U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor has made a point of giving special attention to the financial needs of college students from working-class families during her tenure, and she recently took an important step to ensure bad economic times don't prevent the college-bound from pursuing their dreams.

Recently, Castor spearheaded an amendment to the Ensuring Continued Access to Student Loans Act of 2008 to keep families from being penalized for having overdue medical bills.

"Double-dipping"

"State employees who retire would have to wait 12 months before going back to work for the state under a bill approved by the Florida House Wednesday." "House bill would curb double-dipping on state's payroll". See also "House bill could make it harder for State of Florida retirees to 'double-dip'".

Florida's non-Hispanic white population growth rate falls

"Between July 1, 2006, and June 30, 2007, Florida's non-Hispanic white population growth rate fell to 29th among the 50 states. It added only 4,833 people. Florida ranked fourth a year earlier". "Florida falls to 29th in rate of non-Hispanic white growth".

Outa here

"Daniel Webster bids farewell to Legislature".

Research

"A plan to encourage aerospace research passed unanimously in the House Wednesday, but there are only two days left to get Senate approval." "Florida House passes plan to encourage aerospace research".

"The slums of tomorrow"

Mike Thomas: "There is growing sentiment among urban planners that cities are surrounding themselves with the slums of tomorrow. These are the outlying developments, many thrown up with reckless abandon during the housing bubble to feed speculator demand. In 2005, Florida cities and counties gave out a record 208,000 permits for detached homes, mostly out in the burbs of Central Florida and coastal cities." "Sprawl is just one more nail in economic coffin".

Delegate dance

"Florida Democrats protest in Washington, call for primary to be counted".

5%

"Florida Highway Patrol troopers are relieved, but a last-minute legislative deal to give them a 5 percent pay raise won't stem the tide of defections to higher-paying departments, a union official warned this Wednesday." "Last-minute deal gives FHP troopers 5 percent raise".

Your papers ... please

"The state House voted unanimously Wednesday to tighten what kind of photo IDs can be used at the polls, coming just two days after the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a much stricter photo ID law in Indiana." "Stricter voter ID rules get OK in house".

Almost done

"Only three days remain in the annual 60-day session, which resumes today. Here's a scorecard of what was done at the Capitol Tuesday, and what's on tap today". "Legislators in high gear to meet session deadline".

"The same Gov. Charlie Crist who last year set a single-season record for vetoing budget pork hinted this morning that he will be much more accommodating when the $66.2 billion spending plan lands on his desk." "Updated: Crist smiles on budget plan".

We're Number One!

"For the third year in a row, Florida led the country in 2007 for reports of violence against the homeless, according to a national study released Tuesday." "Florida is No. 1 again in violence against homeless".

Florida's "beleaguered consumers"

"Today, the Federal Reserve is expected to deliver the seventh interest-rate cut since September in an effort to bolster the sagging economy, but that may not be enough to boost the spirits of beleaguered consumers." "Fed rate cut unlikely to boost hard-hit Florida consumer".

It's Strike-all time again

The Palm Beach Post editorial Board: "It's the last week of the legislative session, which is the time for notorious 'strike-all' bills. They are new versions of big-issue legislation. They have a deservedly bad reputation because they run long, arrive at the last minute and contain all sorts of hiding places for bad stuff."

On Tuesday, a "strike-all" transportation bill of more than 100 pages went to the House from the Senate. To the Senate from the House went a 100-plus page "strike-all" insurance bill, which contains bad changes for Citizens Property Insurance Corp., the state-run insurer of last resort that is so important to South Florida.

Breakdown

"Negotiations broke down Tuesday night between House and Senate Republicans over a bill to freeze windstorm premiums for Citizens Property Insurance Corp. customers, leaving in doubt the outcome of the session's most sweeping property insurance changes." "Lawmakers at odds on property insurance changes".

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board: "Still, there's enough time left in the session for lawmakers to make things right. Right? Don't bet on it. The session ends Friday, and lawmakers seem poised to fail their constituents." "State leaders aren't doing enough on property-insurance reform".

While the Legislature battles over protecting teachers of creationism ...

"Tiffany Shepherd, a biology teacher at Port St. Lucie High School, learned last week that she will not be asked to return when school starts next year, nor will she finish this school year. Shepherd doesn't think it's her teaching skills that the St. Lucie County School District found objectionable but, rather, her after-school job as a bikini mate aboard Smokin' Em Charters fishing tours."

As such, Shepherd, a 30-year-old buxom blonde from Fort Pierce with an undergraduate degree in pre-med, performs the usual duties of a mate, but wears a bikini and fetches drinks and sandwiches for the men on board.

It's a job she took three weeks ago to help support her three young sons following a divorce, something she says is difficult to do on a teaching salary.

"Back-pumping"

The Palm Beach Post editorial Board: "Last week, a legislator and a sugar industry lobbyist tried to overturn the South Florida Water Management District board's historic decision banning back-pumping. Fortunately, lobbyists for Audubon of Florida recognized it and thwarted the effort." "Farmers lose; lake wins".

Air head express

Scott Maxwell: "At the White House Correspondents' Association dinner and festivities, Beltway media were fascinated with our unmarried governor, who seems to be on everybody's short list of running mates for John McCain."

So when he showed up escorting Manhattan socialite Carole Rome, cameras clicked.

When he made niceties with actress Morgan Fairchild, The Washington Post eavesdropped, describing the interaction as flirting and suggesting that Crist wasn't good at it.

Isaac did, however, say that [Manhattan socialite] Rome is now officially Crist's "girlfriend."

though, things may not play so well.

I mean, if I wanted to be known as "the people's governor," I'm not sure I'd head up to D.C. for a tux-and-celebrity-filled party -- not when lawmakers in my cash-strapped state were working through the weekend to try to find money for schools and needy residents.

RPOF Voter suppression, Take 7231

The Miami Herald editorial board: "Florida is courting electoral trouble. Heading toward another presidential election, state officials are making it increasingly difficult for citizens to vote. Thanks to state laws, national election experts are warning that Florida is one of the hardest places to vote. Recent court decisions and a lamentable move by Secretary of State Kurt Browning could make matters worse. The potential result: Thousands of eligible Florida voters -- many of them poor, black and Hispanic -- will be prevented from having a voice in the November election." "Florida: a tough place to cast a ballot".

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board: "It's not surprising that recent changes in the state's election law reflected the disaster that was the 2000 election."

The votes of thousands of people, most of them Democrats and minorities, were thrown out because their names were not on voter rolls or because their identities could not be verified.

So now Florida requires voters to produce a photo ID and a valid signature at the polls. ...

The problem, though, is when a voter's ID doesn't match the name on the state's database of qualified voters.

That's why it's important that groups sponsoring registration drives fill out forms correctly and turn them in in time for elections officials to correct errors.

[Secretary of State Kurt] Browning says he's going to start levying fines, and the Florida League of Women Voters has sued to stop him. The league and other groups argue they could be fined for honest mistakes.

We sympathize with volunteer groups, especially those run on shoestring budgets. But that doesn't mean there isn't a problem that needs to be solved.

Since Florida made it much easier for volunteers to run registration drives, more people have shown up at the polls only to discover the forms they signed were never turned in to election supervisors.

Instead of initially resorting to fines, though, Mr. Browning ought to be leading the charge to avoid the mistakes in the first place.

That's the best way for Florida to strike a balance between making it easy to register to vote while protecting the rights of voters and the integrity of elections.

States that imposed identification requirements on voters reduced turnout at the polls in the 2004 presidential election by about 3 percent, and by two to three times as much for minorities, new research suggests.

The study, prepared by scholars at Rutgers and Ohio State Universities for the federal Election Assistance Commission, supports concerns among voting-rights advocates that blacks and Hispanics could be disproportionately affected by ID requirements.

Luv them summits

"Gov. Charlie Crist announced plans Tuesday for a second summit in Miami to fight global warming." "Gov. Crist plans second global warming summit".

How hard was that?

"Lawmakers are putting an end to paying losing transportation bidders hundreds of thousands of dollars on rejected proposals." "House cuts off losing bidders".

Condo changes

"Hundreds of Floridians who earlier this year told a statewide investigative committee about the horrors of their abusive condo and homeowner boards are about to see a payoff. Legislators approved many of the suggestions drawn from their comments, and Gov. Charlie Crist is expected to sign them into law this week." "Changes in Florida condominium law await governor's signature".

"Throwaways or people who matter"?

The Tallahassee Democrat editorial board: "The question is how mean the final budget will be, particularly as it affects the most vulnerable Floridians — people whose lives depend on continued state support. Regardless of party affiliation, political philosophy or personal style, every lawmaker must ask him or herself whether the infirm, the elderly and the uninsured — and poor pregnant women — are throwaways or people who matter." "Health spending should be top priority".

Fraud

"The Florida Senate passed legislation that increases penalties for those convicted of mortgage fraud and that also may provide some relief to affected homeowners." "Fraud penalties hiked, tax help offered".

Public financing OK

"Florida bill repealing public campaign finance likely won't see vote".

"Clean hands"

"In what supporters described as an historic attempt to correct injustice, the Florida Legislature on Tuesday approved automatic compensation for people sentenced to prison for crimes they did not commit. But because of a controversial 'clean hands' provision, an innocent Broward County man who was freed last fall after spending 19 years behind bars for a rape and armed robbery is excluded from the automatic payment. Anyone with a prior felony conviction isn't eligible for an automatic payment." "Florida sets wrongful imprisonment compensation at $50,000 a year". See also "Florida House OKs payment for wrongfully imprisoned".

Fizzle

"A bill to dismantle the system governing state universities and make the education commissioner an elected job fizzled to near death Tuesday when the House failed to take it up." "Education leadership overhaul nearly dead".

Powerful Pasco

"Despite the smallest state budget in four years, the New Port Richey Republican wedged in $10-million to help build roads near schools on his home turf, Pasco County. There's also $5-million to recruit companies to Pasco. And another $10-million to improve affordable housing in three counties. One of them: Pasco." "Senator at top of his game".

Passing the buck

"Private donors could funnel money through state government to help spay and neuter animals at shelters across Florida under a measure passed by the Senate on Tuesday and sent to Gov. Charlie Crist for his signature. ... a Direct Support Organization would be set up with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services that would accept private donations. That money would then be paid out in grants to animal shelters, would help provide shelter and care to animals in emergencies and pay for educational materials on the care of pets." "Bill to help animals passes Florida Senate".

CSX

"The Florida House on Tuesday passed a scaled-back transportation package that paves the way for Central Florida's commuter-rail project but leaves a host of sticking points to be ironed out during the next three days." "Commuter-rail bill's next stop: Florida Senate". See also "Miami mega-sign deal keeps rail bill on track" and "Rail plan still faces legislative switches".

Small business aid

"Not all small businesses owners use the Internet, keep offices, or have the time and staff to comply with state regulations, especially regulations that are designed for larger business. That's why state lawmakers this week created a small business council and the post of advocate to look out for small businesses' interests when state agencies are devising rules." "Small business gets aid".

Patting ourselves on the back

"Bill awarding brain-damaged girl $18.2 million goes to Florida governor". See also "Senate OKs $3.9 million award to Broward man for '92 accident".

"But the House was unwilling to go too green"

"An expansive energy bill headed for the governor's desk is just the first step in making Florida a national leader in clean energy, a lawmaker said Wednesday." "Senate passes energy bill".

"The House unanimously approved a massive energy bill Tuesday, signaling the largest step by the state to address global climate change. The legislation requires a reduction in emissions, mandates ethanol fuel usage by 2010 and creates incentives for power companies to conserve. But the House was unwilling to go too green." "Far-reaching energy measure clears House, but future iffy".

While Florida burns ...

... "State Senate: Wheelies could cost motorcyclists $1,000 a pop".

Oh Goody, we can be just like Albania

The South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board: "This isn't the first time the federal government has asked everyday citizens to keep a watchful eye out for suspicious activity and, in doing so, help keep America's constant vigil against terrorism. And it shouldn't be the last. Engaging average Americans to be alert and report legitimate concerns to authorities as they go about their daily lives is a common sense approach to an enormous, continuing threat, and it's reaped dividends before in thwarting potential terror plots." "Putting recreational boaters on alert for potential terrorism a good idea".

Budget blues

"State budget has a lot of nothing for Hillsborough".

Today's agenda in Tally

On tap in Tally today:

TRANSPORTATION: Senators are expected to debate a transportation package that includes plans for a Central Florida commuter rail line and would let South Florida voters decide whether to impose a tax on cars rented at the area's international airports to provide a funding source for Tri-Rail.

ABORTION: Senators are expected to debate a bill requiring pregnant women in their first trimester to pay for an ultrasound examination if they are seeking an abortion and be offered the opportunity to view it.

CORPORATE VOUCHERS: The Senate also may take up a proposed increase in corporate-tax breaks for companies that help pay for poor students to attend private schools.

Out here in the fields

"Farm worker advocates sought to present more than 80,000 signatures to Burger King officials Monday urging the fast-food giant to join McDonald's Corp. and Taco Bell to help boost the wages of Florida tomato pickers and improve working conditions in the fields."

The presentation of the petitions, collected from all 50 states and 43 countries, came the same day that a newspaper reported a top Burger King official used his young daughter's e-mail address to spread misinformation about the farmworker group."

How low can you go?

"As the Coalition of Immokalee Workers prepares to deliver more than 60,000 petitions to Burger King headquarters in Miami today, the daughter of Burger King's vice-president Stephen Grover confirmed her father is responsible for online postings vilifying the coalition." The Fort Myers News-Press's Amy Bennett Williams writes that

often during the past year, when articles or videos about the coalition were posted on YouTube and various Internet news sites, someone using the online names activist2008 or surfxaholic36 would attach comments coalition member Greg Asbed has called "libelous."

This one, from surfxaholic36, is representative: "The CIW is an attack organization lining the leaders pockets ... They make up issues and collect money from dupes that believe their story. To (sic) bad the people protesting don't have a clue regarding the facts. A bunch of fools!"

Spineless

"Crist's latest populist [sic] pitch to tax-weary constituents: Cut the state gas tax by 10 cents for two weeks this summer." "Crist pushes gas holiday". See also "Crist, Fasano pushing for gas-tax holiday in Florida".

Howard Troxler: "Among the final ideas of the Taxation and Budget Reform Commission, which meets every 20 years to overhaul Florida's tax system. ... because its members were chosen by the governor and Legislature, they've largely reflected the limits of the state's political leadership, instead of surmounting them." Consider the fruits of their labor:

More tax breaks for a select few in Florida?

Making sure that the state can give its tax dollars to the church?

Those are the big ideas for fixing Florida's tax structure?

Another day at the office

Interrupted from a quiet day, gettin' fat "on the couch, finishing off a six-pack of beer and a pack of cigarettes", "Firefighters contain blaze near a Miami-Dade jail", before retiring to their dachas to enjoy their, "lavish", "tony", "platinum", "unbelievable" and otherwise "outlandish benefits" and "sweet pay plans".

This lazy dude apparently had the temerity to call in sick the next day: " officer dragged by car [a Mercedes no less] during traffic stop".

Speaking of health insurance

"Florida workers' health insurance costs climbed nearly one-third between 2001 and 2005 while income rose only slightly, a national trend that is still worsening and is straining the health-care system and consumers, researchers reported Monday. ... Those are big reasons the number of uninsured people in Florida has grown by 19 percent, to 3.7 million – about one in four adults."

Florida families [those with partially paid employer coverage] paid 32 percent of the cost of their health care insurance, on average, in 2005; employers paid the rest. That's up from 28 percent in 2001.

The percentage of Florida employees with health coverage fell from 68 percent in 2001 to 63 percent four years later. That's below the national average of 67.5 percent.

The median income in Florida rose by less than 2 percent after inflation over the five years, to $39,849 in 2005. That's $3,000 below the national average.

Back at the ranch, Rubio and Mr. Happy Face are still fighting

"A health coverage plan for 3.8 million uninsured Floridians has stalled amid the down-to-the-wire politics of a state lawmaking session where there has been too little money and trust to ensure its swift passage."

Both Gov. Charlie Crist and fellow Republican House Speaker Marco Rubio of West Miami have made the issue a top priority, though they now have only four days left to reconcile basic differences in their plans that reflect basic differences in their styles:

• Crist's ''Cover Florida'' plan is simple and passed the Senate quietly and unanimously. It would offer individuals less-expensive health insurance in return for less-expansive coverage.

• Rubio's ''Florida Health Choices'' plan is more complex and passed on a party-line vote last week after Democrats forced a 16-hour slowdown. The plan borrows Cover Florida plans, and also creates a public-private corporation to act as a health-plan ''marketplace'' and human-resources department for small businesses.

Rubio and fellow House Republicans say they've scaled back their proposal, at Crist's insistence, to ensure it has more ''consumer protections.'' But they fear that could lead to "over-regulation.''

Though a compromise product is likely, Rubio is preparing to scuttle the legislation if Health Choices isn't in the mix.

Charlie may dodge yet another bullet

"A bill mandating ultrasound scans for all women seeking an abortion faces an uncertain vote Tuesday in the Florida Senate, where moderate Republicans are banding with Democrats to defeat it -- thereby sparing Gov. Charlie Crist from tackling an issue on which he has shifted his stance."

Lawsuits

"The League of Women Voters of Florida and other groups who register voters sued the state Monday over a Florida voter registration law that imposes fines on the groups if they do not register voters according to deadlines, an attorney said." "Registration groups sue over voter registration law". See also "Groups registering voters sue over voter registration law" and "Groups oppose voter registration law".

"Party lines"

"Florida House lawmakers approved a bill Monday that would require teachers to point out the flaws in evolution." "Evolution bill clears House; Senate approval unlikely".

"In a move that could bring religious-based alternative theories such as creationism into the classroom, the House on Monday voted largely along party lines to require Florida's public school teachers to challenge evolution."

But the House bill is at odds with a version approved by the Senate, which has already rejected the House's approach of instructing teachers to present a "scientific critical analysis of the scientific theory of evolution."

On a 71-43 vote, the Republican-dominated House approved an anti-evolution bill that senators have said they cannot accept. Senate Republican leaders say they don't have the votes to stray from their version, approved last week, that focuses on the rights of teachers and students to express skeptical views of evolution.

The chambers have just four days to merge the two bills, as legislators still face weighty issues, from an austere budget to health care for the uninsured and property insurance.

"Extra fire power"

"Miami-area Democrats, seeking to show they have national support for three key congressional races against Republicans, brought in some extra fire power Monday: U.S. Rep. Chris Van Hollen, head of the committee that helps House Democrats get elected. Van Hollen of Maryland pledged that the three Democratic challengers will have the backing of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee he oversees."

"Former Hialeah Mayor Raul Martinez is challenging Rep. Lincoln Diaz-Balart; former Miami-Dade Democratic Party Chairman Joe Garcia is running against Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart; and businesswoman Annettte Taddeo faces Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen." "Herald: National Democrats offer support to local candidates".

Jebbites hold the field

The St. Petersburg Times editorial board: "In devoting two ballot questions to school vouchers, the constitutionally empaneled Taxation and Budget Reform Commission removed any doubt about its agenda. The commission, which includes three members of former Gov. Jeb Bush's staff, placed his education legacy [such as it is] at the top of the list."

The tribute was led by a commission member, Patricia Levesque, who serves as paid director for the two foundations created to keep Bush's political fortunes alive. And let no one be fooled by what lies ahead. The commission has assured that pro- and antivoucher groups will make Florida a national battleground. The campaign will be ugly, costly, divisive — and just the kind of politics that Bush relished.

Call this Bush's postgubernatorial "devious plan." He and the Legislature repeatedly expanded voucher programs even as courts were ruling against the first program, Opportunity Scholarships. Now he gets a chance at payback, and had the familiar cheek to issue this statement on Friday: "Florida voters, not activist jurists, will ultimately decide the best way to provide a quality education for all of our students." Apparently, "activist" commissioners who go beyond their constitutional power don't bother him.

The worst part about this upcoming voucher fight is the extent to which it will again polarize the debate on education reform. Gov. Charlie Crist has tried to restore trust with educators who under Bush were treated as though they were obstacles to progress. Some teacher union officials and voucher supporters have even worked behind the scenes to try to find common ground, and none of the remaining voucher programs have been challenged in court.

That cease-fire is about to be blown apart.

At this point, the damage is only potential because 60 percent of voters in November would have to approve the worst of the commission's proposed constitutional amendments. But the intent and effect of the worst amendments are hidden. On big issues, this commission chose politics over public responsibility.

The former governor created a program through which students at low-performing public schools could get vouchers - public money - to attend religious schools. As the Florida Supreme Court noted in a 7-2 ruling two years ago, that voucher program violates the state constitution because it "undermines the system of high-quality free public schools."

Never one to admit when he's wrong, Mr. Bush tried to get the Legislature to circumvent the ruling. He failed, but House Speaker Marco Rubio, R-West Miami, appointed Mr. Bush's former education adviser to the tax and budget commission. Five other commissioners also have ties to the former governor. Last week, the commission approved two amendments that would overturn the voucher ruling and allow public money for private, religious schools that don't have to give the FCAT, which the state uses to measure public schools.

Passage would enshrine them in the state constitution.

It seems Jeb plans to become the Al Gore of American education:

An Inkonvenent Trooth.

His case for school reform certainly is as strong as Al's case for carbon reform. And no school reform has been more misunderstood than vouchers.

"Will the governor do it again?"

"A year ago, Gov. Charlie Crist vetoed a bid to impose new fees on Florida renters who break their leases. Will the governor do it again? By a 38-0 vote, the Senate on Monday shipped to Crist a bill to change the state's 35-year-old landlord-tenant law by authorizing "early termination fees" against renters who leave before their leases are up." "Tenant bill heads to Crist's desk".

Gutting public schools

"Florida lawmakers appear headed toward expanding a program that gives [$118 million in income] tax credits to corporations that help pay for low-income children to attend private schools. ... critics blasted the giving of additional tax credits -- not collecting potential tax dollars -- at the same time a budget crunch is forcing the state to cut funding for public schools." "House OKs bill to expand credits for corporations".

"Try to follow this logic"

The St. Petersburg Times editorial board: "Try to follow this logic. Citizens Property Insurance Corp., the underfunded state-run insurer, does not charge actuarily sound rates. If a major hurricane hit Florida, insurance policyholders in this state would be hit with billions of dollars in assessments because Citizens would not have enough money to pay claims. Yet in the final week of the legislative session, state lawmakers appear poised to take $250-million from Citizens and steer it to new private insurance companies. That would be a reckless gamble, and Gov. Charlie Crist should follow through on his veto threat if legislators don't come to their senses." "Plan to tap Citizens is bad gamble".

'Glades

"Legislative leaders slipped $50 million for Everglades cleanup back into the state budget only hours after announcing there was no money this year for the River of Grass, it became clear Monday." "$50 million for Everglades cleanup slipped back into Florida budget".

Webster

"'Future office is not ruled out, but it's certainly not ruled in,' said Webster, mentioned as a possible congressional candidate [Keller?] or successor to Orange County Mayor Rich Crotty, who will be ousted by county term limits in two years." "Central Florida lawmaker Daniel Webster coy about plans as term limits end 28-year tenure".

"Start fretting"

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board: "If the way legislators previously helped communities plan their futures is a guide to what they come up with this time around, start fretting." "Our position: Legislators need to do more to get locals to stick to growth blueprints".

Acosta in action

The South Florida Sun-Sentinel editor is far too forgiving of Acosta and the rest of Bushco's Keystone Kops, and their unproven claims that Miami paint-ballers were plotting with al-Qaida to blow up the Chicago Sears Tower: "The U.S. government has spent millions of dollars trying to convict seven Liberty City men of conspiring to launch terrorist attacks on American soil. But so far, the effort has been in vain. The case has resulted in two hung juries, and now prosecutors are seeking a third trial. The public is right to be skeptical." "Liberty City terrorist case unproven".

The rules don't apply

Nice to read that "the Florida House on Monday approved a bill that would prevent counties from enforcing regulations on land classified as agricultural." "Florida House acts to prevent farm-land regulation".

McBush sees a commie plot

"Taking up healthcare for the first time as the future GOP nominee, John McCain in Miami accused his Democratic rivals of seeking a government takeover to harness explosive costs." "In Florida, McCain turns focus to healthcare".

Why does Rubio hate American autistic children?

pThe Palm Beach Post editorial Board: "The House bill correctly seeks to cover children with a variety of developmental disorders, not solely autism. But because of House Speaker Marco Rubio's opposition, the bill does not require insurers to cover early diagnosis and treatment - the help parents of children with developmental disabilities need most. Instead, insurers would get two more years to continue lobbying against the mandate." "Require autism coverage". See also "Autism bill may need trimming to pass".

Not in the cards

"The Florida Senate on Monday soundly rejected a plan that would have let Palm Beach Kennel Club open an off-track card room and betting facility to help it better compete against Indian casinos and state-sanctioned slot machines at Broward County's pari-mutuels." "Florida Senate rejects plan to let Palm Beach Kennel Club add card room". See also "Senate kills 'disgusting' gambling bill".

"Patience and fortitude"

The South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board: "The primary election process has come up with more than its share of controversy and low-lights, but give credit to 14 of Florida's 26 superdelegates for their patience and fortitude." "Florida superdelegates shouldn't be in any hurry to choose".

If you like these kinds of things: "Test your knowledge of the Florida delegate debacle".

"Like a locomotive"

The Tampa Tribune editorial board: "The state's sweetheart deal with CSX Transportation is barreling through Tallahassee like a locomotive, no matter the fiscal, legal and civic concerns that should grind it to a halt. The state's chief financial officer raised the latest red flag over the plan to purchase 61 miles of CSX track and create commuter rail in Central Florida, a deal that would allow the railroad to use the lines for freight at night." "One More Reason To Pull CSX Deal".

Whatever

"Legislation that would mandate safer-burning cigarettes designed to reduce home fires will soon land on Gov. Charlie Crist's desk." "Bill passes requiring safer-burning cigarettes".

Miami vice

"The call girl who triggered the downfall of former New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer sued the founder of the racy 'Girls Gone Wild' videos Monday for $10 million, claiming her image and name are being exploited. ... The lawsuit filed in federal court in Miami names as defendants 'Girls Gone Wild' founder Joe Francis, two of his companies and a man purportedly involved in creation of two Internet sites the lawsuit contends improperly use Dupre to sell DVDs and other products." "Ashley Dupre from Spitzer call girl case sues 'Girls Gone Wild' for $10 million over photos, video".

"They followed the rules"

Daniel Ruth: "If, come this January, John McCain finds himself standing on the steps of the Capitol Building taking the oath of office of the presidency of the United States, Howard Dean and his clipboard of condo association board members can rest easy, warm and secure in the knowledge they followed the rules - all the way into the dung heap of history. This is what happens when a major political party is turned into a sweat lodge, presided over by Neville Chamberlain meets Kermit the Frog." "People Have Shed Blood For This?"

"Statewide average loss of $130.85 per student"

"The reduction for Hillsborough pales next to the statewide average loss of $130.85 per student." "Hillsborough, Pinellas Schools Lose $38 Million In Budget".

At the trough

"Noteworthy names on the presumptive Republican nominee's most recent donor list: former House Speakers Allan Bense and John Thrasher, developers Mel and Brent Sembler, and political consultant Sally Bradshaw (formerly all of Mitt Romney's campaign) and political consultant Randy Enwright (formerly of Fred Thompson's campaign). And here's one more: former Gov. Jeb Bush, who gave $1,000." "Political big shots giving McCain's campaign a lift".

More than a flag pin

"U.S. Rep. Ron Klein, D-Boca Raton, unveiled a five-point blueprint today to expand health care and other benefits for military veterans. Dubbed the Five-Star Veterans' Priority Plan, the initiative includes mandating funding for veterans' health care, strengthening benefits for National Guard and Reserves members, reviving and updating the G.I. Bill, eliminating the backlog of disability claims and guaranteeing health benefits for returning service members. " "Klein unveils vets' benefits proposal".

"It's [NOT] better than nothing"

The Daytona Beach News-Journal editorial board: "Throughout the legislative session scheduled to end this week, lawmakers rammed through crucial decisions with a cynical 'it's better than nothing' attitude. But in many cases, "nothing" would be preferable to the course lawmakers set. There's no better example of that than a bill intended to correct some of the state's worst cases of injustice." "Justice after prison".

"Nothing. And everything"

"What do fines for adorning trailer hitches with Truck Nutz -- those dangling modifiers of redneck mascul-inanity -- have to do with creating a 61-mile commuter rail service between DeLand and Polk County? Nothing. And everything." See what the editors mean here: "Sweeter pot, now OK commuter rail".