State economists forecast Friday that Florida’s budget shortfall will grow yet again – now by about $135 million. That could bring next year’s gap to more than $3.75 billion.

It means that schools, prisons, courts, healthcare for the poor and elderly, environmental programs and road building programs face even more cuts and have little chance of being kept whole when compared to the current budget year, which expires June 30.

The shortfall also has political ramifications for Gov. Rick Scott, who pledged to deeply cut taxes and fees by about $2.4 billion. Legislators say they just can’t do that.

While we were sleeping ...

"Emergency workers extracted the officer from the car and transported him to Orlando Regional Medical Center." "Orlando cop pulled from crushed car after being pinned beneath tractor-trailer | Video".

Ivy leaguers visit third world country

"Harvard students spend spring break tending Apopka farm fields".

Growing Latino population doesn't like the GOP

"The share of Hispanics living in Florida grew by almost 60 percent over the past decade as the percentage of white residents declined slightly and the proportion of blacks and Asians inched up, according to data released Thursday by the U.S. Census." "Share of Latinos in Fla. up by 60 percent". See also "South Florida leading national census trend".

"A recent poll out of California found an uphill battle for Republicans hoping to make inroads with Latinos, the largest and fastest growing minority in the United States." "Poll Finds Latino Voters Have 'Widely Negative' Views Of GOP".

Florida Prepaid College program split

"Rep. Marlene O'Toole, who oversees the House's higher education spending, said she's opposed to her Senate counterpart's proposal to cut off enrollment in the Florida Prepaid College program." "House, Senate split on halting tuition plan".

"Teachers face a near seismic shift"

"Florida's 170,000 public school teachers face a near seismic shift in their professional lives with passage of a far-reaching merit-pay bill." "Teacher merit pay: What you should know". See also "Weekly Roundup: Merit Pay Moves Forward".

RPOFers want their "leadership funds"

"The House State Affairs Committee on Friday recommended that the full chamber vote to override former Gov. Charlie Crist's veto of a controversial campaign finance bill that restores so-called leadership funds." "Republicans push for veto override".

How desperate can the GOP get?

"President Trump? Billionaire considering 2012 run".

RPOFer at work

"Damon Chase is one of the most prominent attorneys in Seminole County. His clients include Jim Greer, ousted chairman of the Florida GOP, and Rep. Chris Dorworth, the man slated to become Florida's House speaker in 2014." "Man arrested a dozen times is now prominent Fla. lawyer".

Entrepreneurs in action

"U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson says some of Florida's worst tax cheats are already in prison. The state's senior senator said today that Florida led the nation with the most prison inmates committing tax fraud with 8,777 bogus claims in the 2009 tax year. Nelson said more than $39 million was refunded on the fraudulent claims." "Nelson wants to clamp down on tax cheating inmates".

Enough "Arizona-style"

The Sarasota-Herald Tribune editors: "Yesterday's protest against immigration-related bills pending in the Florida Legislature didn't overwhelm the state capital. The crowd of protesters was relatively small, compared with the emotions and divisions generated by the mere mention of immigration policies and practices. Nevertheless, there are encouraging signs that the political debate, the emergence of valid concerns about an 'Arizona-style' approach and the recognition of competing interests have moderated the pursuits of many legislators." "Wiser course on immigration". Related: "Senate proposal calls for Florida to bill feds for immigration costs". Related: "Immigration bill opponents say GOP lawmakers are pushing it for ''political reasons''".

Dems think the RPOF could lose at least 5 seats

"The decennial re-mapping of all 435 congressional districts in the country (aka redistricting) is a very complicated process. Every state does it its own way, and the process is highly dependent on local elected officials whose names few people know and who, oftentimes, aren’t exactly answerable to the public. ... The number one ranked state is considered the most important redistricting battleground in the country."

1. Florida: In no state is more at stake. That’s because Republicans currently hold a ridiculous 19-to-six edge in the congressional delegation of this swing state, and voters in November passed constitutional amendments aimed at reining in the legislature’s ability to gerrymander. If those rules stick, Democrats think Republicans could lose upwards of five seats in the coming years. If they don’t, the GOP will try to draw the state’s two new districts as Republican-leaning and hope to expand its huge majority even further.

"The usual garbage"

The Saint Petersburg Times editorial board: "Tampa voters should brace themselves over the weekend for the usual garbage that has come to pass as campaigning in the closing hours of an election." "Flying mud mars election".

Outsiders

Randy Schultz: "Ernie George found himself Thursday in an unfamiliar position - begging before the Florida Legislature."

Twelve years ago, Mr. George was one of those calling the shots. A longtime stalwart in the police union - he was the statewide boss [sic] at one point - Mr. George was riding high in March 1999. He and other leaders in the police and firefighter unions had struck a deal the previous year with Jeb Bush: Agree to sign a bill forcing cities to fatten [sic] police and fire pensions, and we'll endorse you for governor and turn out the vote. ...

Three days ago, however, Mr. George appeared as an outsider before the Government Affairs Committee of the Florida House. There's a new Republican governor, as there was in 1999, and the GOP enjoys even larger majorities in the House and Senate, but it's a different era with a different attitude. For one thing, the Police Benevolent Association endorsed Alex Sink for governor. For another, these days in Tallahassee, public employee unions - and their pensions - are a problem, not a political base.

Don't let the door hit you in the derriere

"What's happening, experts say, is that the waves of retirees — largely non-Hispanic whites from the Northeast — who sustained the [South Florida] region's vast condominium communities have dried up. Instead, this generation's Social Security set is opting for Arizona, the west coast of Florida, North Carolina and other destinations that seem to offer the serenity once promised by southeast Florida." "Retirees picking other areas key to demographic changes".

Putnam fans

The Tampa Tribune editorial board: "Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam kept a campaign promise last week when he appeared before the state Department of Education to urge support of legislation that would move the $600 million school nutrition program to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Despite the grumbling of some education board members, Agriculture's takeover of the school lunch and breakfast programs would be a natural fit." "Agriculture and school nutrition".

LeMieux lookin'

"He's not quite in the race to challenge Sen. Nelson and get his old job back ("I am considering it"), but he sure sounds like a candidate." "Is LeMieux in the race? Maybe".

"Packing Tech-9s along with rosary beads"

"If the National Rifle Association’s Marion Hammer wanted the Florida Legislature to require every citizen to own a gun, it probably wouldn’t be long before nuns would be forced to pack Tech-9s along with their rosary beads." "Carrying gun rights to dangerous extreme".

RPOF pushes "tax on salaries" to fill budget gap

"Some 655,000 public employees would contribute 5 percent of their pay to the state's pension plan".

Democrats and union officials Thursday called the 5 percent contribution a 'tax on salaries,' noting state workers haven't had a general pay raise since 2006. Pension payments, coupled with proposed hikes in health insurance coverage, will hurt, unions said.

The committee approved the pension rewrite on a 9-5 vote, with Democrats unanimously opposed. It is expected to pull $1.3 billion into the state treasury, easing a budget shortfall three times that size.

Inseparable bond

Steve Bousquet on Former Gov. Reubin Askew and his friend, Judge Joseph Hatchett:

Both men are upset by current legislative efforts to reshape the judiciary by creating two Supreme Courts, abolish judicial nominating panels and require a 60-percent threshhold in future merit retention votes for appeals judges.

"The feeling in the Legislature is that the court system is their enemy," Askew said. "It bothers me."

Askew, who served 12 years in the Legislature, said he still cannot believe today's presiding officers — the House speaker and Senate president — have the power to fire every unelected senior staff member.

Free Market fight for right to dump sewage into streams

"Free Market Florida launches battle against EPA water standards".

"Securing city and county business at all costs"

"Caribbean cruises, NASCAR races, Disney vacations, expensive jewelry: all were lavished on public officials by a Wellington equipment company determined to secure city and county business at all costs, Palm Beach County State Attorney Michael McAuliffe charged Friday." "13 arrested in Palm Beach County corruption case".

Medicaid deform

The Palm Beach Post editorial board: "Florida Medicaid reform will need reforming: Don't just expand managed care". See also "As Medicaid privatization moves through House, Broward County brings concerns".

RPOFer gets his jury

"A jury of four women and two men will decide the fate of Ray Sansom, the former House speaker accused of grand theft and conspiracy in budget dealings the state says he disguised to benefit political ally Jay Odom." "Jury seated for Ray Sansom's trial". See also "Update: 6-member jury selected in Sansom trial". Related: "Crist to testify in Sansom case".

West feels threatened

"Speaking to a full house of 600-plus at the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches, the [disgraced] retired Army lieutenant colonel said China's military and economic expansion pose a direct threat to the United States." "Allen West Takes On China, D.C. Bureaucrats".

Rail is dead

"After spending weeks on life support, Florida's high-speed rail project came to a definitive halt Friday when Amtrak officials told Sen. Bill Nelson they will not pursue a bullet train in the state."

The reason: There's not enough time.

The company said it could not meet the April 4 deadline set by the federal government for applications for $2.4 billion in federal money it had planned to award Florida before Gov. Rick Scott turned it away last month. Scott said he believed the project would be a burden on Florida taxpayers.

Rail advocates had hoped Amtrak and a coalition of local governments, including Tampa, Orlando, Lakeland and Miami, could attempt to win the funds to build an 84-mile line between Tampa and Orlando.

Now even Nelson, who called the plan a "Hail Mary" pass, says rail is dead.

Thank you, Mr. Obama

"Survey: Vacation Home Market on the Rebound". Related: "LaHood editorial poses questions for Scott".

When wingnuttery collides with state public records laws

"As Gov. Rick Scott’s team increasingly relies on social media to drive debate on his legislative agenda and deliver an unfiltered message to supporters, the 21st century technology is colliding with state public records laws."

Scott and his team have posted 151 messages on Twitter and received thousands of comments on 52 separate Facebook page posts in the 10 weeks since he’s taken office.

But Scott’s staff has struggled with how to handle those messages: Should each post be catalogued? Must the office record every Facebook comment from the public before the original poster deletes it? Can comments be deleted?

Now elected, Scott disses teabaggers

"A battle that's shaping up in Tallahassee could pit state Tea Party activists against Gov. Rick Scott and Las Vegas casino lobbyists, and state legislators against The Seminole Tribe of Florida."

The fate of a bill introduced to allow Las Vegas-style, non-Indian casino gambling in Florida could shape the creation of hundreds of jobs and determine whose pockets and coffers millions of dollars of potential gambling revenue will land.

Scott indicated in January he was open to allowing casino gambling resorts in Florida despite indicating during his campaign he opposed relying on gambling for state revenue.

Earlier this month, two state senators filed legislation that would allow five Las Vegas-style casino hotels in Florida, a measure the Seminole Tribe of Florida said it would oppose.

"Where’s Mine?"

The Miami Herald editorial board: "Legendary newspaper columnist Mike Royko once suggested that Chicago’s slogan be changed to 'Where’s Mine?' It’d be an equally apt motto for Miami Beach politicians, whose self-promoting use of freebie tickets sends an arrogant message of entitlement." "No freebies for pols".

But firefighter wages are unjustified?

"Former county manager George Burgess, who stepped down Thursday, will get hundreds of thousands of dollars in severance, health insurance, and monthly expenses, under his employment contract." "Outgoing county manager gets pay and benefits package".

Congressman Jeff Kottkamp? How about Congresswoman Paula Dockery?

It looks like the two Republicans live in the perfect spots to take advantage of two new Congressional seats Florida could gain because of population growth, according to consultants and political maps based on new estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau.

The maps, released Thursday by the Legislature, don’t spell out the location of the new districts. But the Legislature will decide that next January when it meets to redraw congressional and legislative districts to ensure that politicians represent equal populations.

The amendments, in conjunction with a new court ruling over minority voting rights, are sure to make for a tough court fight after the Legislature finishes its redistricting work. Regardless of what the courts decide, the entire 160-member Legislature will be up for re-election in 2012, as will each member of Congress.

All of it adds up to a political free-for-all.

A quick gander of the political maps suggests that Miami-Dade and Pinellas counties are good bets to lose state House seats. Palm Beach County could lose a resident state senator. And the Miami-based congressional district held by Republican Rep. David Rivera could get cut at the Collier County line, making the seat a little less Republican, said Steve Schale, a Democratic consultant.

Rivera’s district, which is over-populated by nearly 111,000, borders the Fort Myers-based seat held by Rep. Connie Mack, who’s mulling a run for U.S. Senate. His seat is overpopulated by about 162,000.

So it’s likely, though not guaranteed, that many of those excess Collier and Lee County residents will form the backbone of a new Southwest Florida-based congressional seat, according to Schale.

"The two people who are in the strongest position are Jeff Kottkamp and Paula Dockery," Schale said.

Kottkamp, a former lieutenant governor from Cape Coral, is strongly considering a run. He heavily carried Southwest Florida in his unsuccessful bid for attorney general in 2010.

"This is my home base and I would expect to be very competitive if we decide to do it," Kottkamp said in a January interview. "There are a lot of things that go into these decisions. First of all, we have to wait and see if there’s a vacant seat."

Week two winds down

"As the legislative session's second week winds down, public and media attention will shift from the Capitol to a courthouse across the street." "A look ahead at the Legislature".

RPOFers want to "drive unemployed into destitution"

The Saint Petersburg Times editors point out that "it's up to the Florida Senate to apply some common sense on an issue that's entirely of the state's own making. Cutting unemployment benefits now would drive more of the unemployed into destitution and take money out of the economy, while saving businesses relatively little. That does not make fiscal sense." "Punishing policy on jobless".

Budget gap may change in size

"State economists are updating their general revenue forecast for the next budget year. Their new estimate is due Friday and it will determine whether Florida lawmakers will have a bigger or smaller budget gap to fill." "State economists reviewing Fla. revenue forecast".

"But he won. Period"

Scott Maxwell has "a quick note to all those Rick Scott-haters who are dying for a recall election:"

Shut up.

And I mean that in the nicest possible way.

Yes, the guy has done things that truly worry those of us who care about transportation, education, the environment and basic critical thinking.

But he won. Period. And the winner gets to stay in office. That's how our democracy works.

Also — and this is important — Florida's Constitution doesn't provide for voters to recall a governor. Or other state officials for that matter.

Short of criminal activity, he gets the four years that your friends and neighbors gave him.

60 year old firefighters in our future

Who elects these idiots? "House plan: Cops, firefighters would have to work till 60".

Florida Republicans face jury

"Former House Speaker Ray Sansom of Destin will stand trial next week on grand theft and conspiracy charges stemming from his role in allegedly steering tax money to a project benefiting a friend and political supporter, developer Jay Odom, who will stand trial as well." Today in Tallahassee: Jury selection for Ray Sansom's trial"".

RPOFers cross swords

"Public schools next year would receive roughly the same funding as this year under a preliminary proposal floated in the Florida Senate this morning, a sharp departure from Gov. Rick Scott's suggested 10 percent cut and the House's initial 7.7 percent decrease." "Fla. Senate budget leaders designate more money for education than Scott".

Racial profiling

"Racial Profiling Takes Center Stage in Florida Immigration Fight".

Scott "less about accountability than winning a political debate"

"During a week dedicated to celebrating the freedom of public information, Gov. Rick Scott on Thursday launched a website devoted to records that push his agenda."

The site was designed to burnish Scott's open government credentials.

But including information that supports only his legislative priorities suggests the effort was less about accountability than winning a political debate, government records experts said.

Norman the target of investigation

"State Sen. Jim Norman is now officially the target of an investigation by the Florida ethics commission, according to a Dover man who filed an ethics complaint against Norman last year."

George Niemann, who filed the complaint Nov. 15, said he recently talked to an investigator with the ethics commission who has been assigned to look into an Arkansas vacation home owned by Norman's wife.

The home was purchased and refurbished with a $500,000 loan from Ralph Hughes, Norman's friend and political supporter. Hughes often appeared before the Hillsborough County Commission when Norman was a member of that board.

"Miami-Dade recall sends a message"

The Sun Sentinel editorial board: "Maybe it's voter anger with government spending and arrogance. Maybe it's because of the recession and built-up frustration with taxes. And maybe it's because people are seeing how others around the world are fighting to make their voices heard." "Angry voters show they want a voice".

"Second pension bill is defanged"

"A week after several cost-saving provisions of a state pension reform bill were removed, a second bill dealing with local government pension plans was softened Thursday in the Senate. Senate Bill 1128 originally would have prohibited local governments from offering defined benefit plans to new employees, but was amended Thursday to allow for greater local control." "Senate Treats Local Government Pension Plans More Kindly".

Flip-floppery

"Nine days ago, Florida Senate President (and U.S. Senate Candidate) Mike Haridopolos appeared before a cheering tea party crowd chanting, 'E-Verify, E-Verify!' on the steps of the historic capitol. Today similarly large crowd gathered to send him a different message." "Battle for heart of the Republican party on display at immigration rally".

RPOFers in CYA mode

"New preliminary numbers released Thursday in the Senate Education Appropriations Committee show a proposed cut of 2.28 percent in per-student education spending – a change from the 10-percent cut proposed by Gov. Rick Scott and less than the 7.7-percent cut suggested on Tuesday by House Education Appropriations chairwoman Marti Coley." "Senator: Education cuts may not be as bad as earlier predictions".

"Back to the Middle Ages"

"State Rep. Schwartz on crisis pregnancy center funding: ‘We’re going back to the Middle Ages’".

"Prominent Trilby egg farmer" throws his hat into the ring

"Wilton Simpson, the prominent Trilby egg farmer, businessman and president of the Pasco County Fair Association, has filed paperwork to run for the state Senate seat being vacated by Republican Mike Fasano, who is stepping down due to term limits. Simpson, a Republican, said Thursday evening that he was motivated to run, 'because of the state of our state.' " "East Pasco business owner files for state Senate seat".

Editors like their nukes

The Miami Herald editorial board: "In Florida, FPL is seeking the go-ahead to build two new reactors at Turkey Point. Progress Energy wants to build a new plant in Levy County. The state already has three operating plants (Crystal River, St. Lucie and Turkey Point) housing five reactors. Without new generating facilities, Florida could fail to meet its growing energy needs." "Nuclear power’s future".

Cannon’s tantrum picks up steam

"House Speaker Dean Cannon’s bold plan to overhaul the Florida Supreme Court gathered steam Thursday, as a Republican-controlled House committee endorsed the proposed changes and Democrats opposed them, as did the Florida Bar and some judges." "Supreme court bill gains steam".

Non-partisan sheriff

"Broward sheriff wants to go non-partisan".

You do it

"Mindful of angry voters who ousted the mayor and a commissioner, a majority of Miami-Dade County commissioners support a special election to fill the vacancies — rather than making appointments themselves." "County commissioners: Hold election for next mayor".

"Bad legislation and should not be passed"

"A bill allowing people with concealed weapons permits to openly carry guns concerns three local sheriffs. '... At the end of the day, this is bad legislation and should not be passed,' Polk Sheriff Grady Judd says." "Gun bill worries sheriffs".

Dereg madness

"A House committee votes in favor of cutting oversight of more than two dozen professions, a move Gov. Rick Scott says will create jobs." "House committee votes to cut oversight of about 30 professions".

Decennial Census data

Update: "Florida gains clout, picks up 2 House seats on 17.6% growth in past decade". See also "Florida grows by 2.8 million people in past ten years, new census figures show", "2010 Census population change in Palm Beach County", "2010 Census population change in Broward County", "Guillermo I. Martinez: Census shows a rise in Hispanics, but not in Hispanic voters", "Florida's Changing Population: Census 2010" and "Census says: Orange grew faster than all major Florida counties".

"The release Thursday of the decennial Census will show how the state has grown in the past decade, as well as provide some insight as to where Florida's two new congressional seats likely will be drawn." "Census to release Florida data".

Six-figure state pensions

"In name of transparency, Gov. Rick Scott releases list of six-figure state pensions".

Pension dead enders

The Sun Sentinel editorial board: "Lawmakers need to take a long look in the mirror. There needs to be a level benefits playing field for lawmakers, judges and rank-and-file public workers. And right now, the benefits being paid to the highest earners, like judges and elected officials, are totally inappropriate." "Pension benefits need fairness".

Medicaid deform

"All indications are the Republican-led Legislature will turn over to HMO-style plans most of the 2.9 million people in Florida’s health program for the poor, disabled and elderly." "Two sides disagree if Medicaid ‘reform’ helps or hurts". See also "House committee advances Medicaid overhaul".

Merit pay, without the "pay"

Update: "The FEA is taking a careful look at the legislation, particularly the collective bargaining provisions, and is anticipating a lawsuit." "Teacher merit pay bill sent to Scott, but union likely to sue".

"At a news conference celebrating the bill’s passage, neither Scott nor Senate President Mike Haridopolos, R-Merritt Island, could answer the question of how much teachers should be paid." "Florida House approves teacher tenure law". See also "Gov. Scott praises teacher merit pay as House makes it first bill to hit his desk" and "Lawmakers change how teachers get paid, stay employed".

"How do you square those things?"

"On Wednesday and Thursday, education leaders, including U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan, the nation's largest teacher unions, and officials from the highest scoring countries, are meeting in New York to identify the best teaching practices."

The meeting comes after the recently released results of the Programme for International Student Assessment exam of 15-year-olds alarmed U.S. educators. Out of 34 countries, it ranked 14th in reading, 17th in science and 25th in math.

"On the one hand, the United States has a very expensive education system in international standards," said Andreas Schleicher, who directs the exam. "On the other hand, it's one of the systems where teachers get the lowest salaries.

"Then you ask yourself, how do you square those things?"

Recall fallout

"Mayor Carlos Alvarez named a long-time aide and confidante, Alina Tejada Hudak, to fill the county manager’s post as George Burgess steps down." "New manager takes reins at County Hall after recall".

"Unworthy"

The Saint Petersburg Times editorial board:

Voters have every right to expect a candidate they support at the ballot box to stick around and serve a full term. But Pinellas County Sheriff Jim Coats, in an apparent attempt to manipulate the electoral system, suggested that if he is re-elected in 2012 he might cut his term short to pave the way for his preferred successor. Coats has since backed off his plan, and rightly so.

Cannon sulks

Update: Embarrassing - "A judiciary subcommittee today approved House Speaker Dan Cannon's plan to split the Florida Supreme Court in half in an effort to speed up death penalty appeals." "House subcommittee approves Supreme Court reorganization".

"Cannon, a Winter Park lawyer, wants to split the seven-member Supreme Court into two courts of five members each — one to handle civil cases and the other to handle criminal cases." "Today in Tallahassee: Bid to revamp Supreme Court gets hearing".

RPOFers force "unfunded mandate to local governments"

"The Florida House has twice more passed an existing law loosening urban sprawl controls to thwart a court challenge."

The two roll calls were taken Wednesday on a bill (HB 7001) that would re-enact growth management provisions of the 2009 law. The bill now goes to the Senate.

A judge ruled that the law was an unconstitutional unfunded mandate to local governments. The Legislature can bypass the constitutional provision with a two-thirds vote in each chamber.

This is the left wing media?

The Miami Herald editors - country clubbers that they are* - whine that the Mayor "gave away the store to unions".

- - - - - - - - - -
*See also "Why Newspapers Endorse Candidates". More here.

Number 5!

"Florida wants to be state No. 5 for presidential primary".

"Righteous anger ain’t cheap"

Fred Grimm: "Once the recall results are certified, a special election to replace the banished Carlos Alvarez and Natacha Seijas will cost yet another $5 million or so. Righteous anger, manifested as unbudgeted special elections, ain’t cheap." "At this cost, voters could have waited till next ...".

Teabaggers grumble

"Republican Party Vetting Scott Website".

The Florida Center for Fiscal and Economic Policy

In the wake of the Florida Senate’s approval of a state revenue limitation proposal, FCFEP Chair Nelson Easterling says the services the state needs should be the starting point in determining the adequacy of a tax system.

The real issue in tax adequacy is the role of government and what services the state needs to provide to meet its responsibilities, he says.

RPOFer leader corruption trial

"Jury selection to start in Sansom corruption trial".

Keepin' that FRS pension running

"State Sen. Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey, is interested in running for sheriff of Pasco County in 2012. The 52-year-old lawmaker will be termed out of the Legislature next year and the sheriff's post will be up for grabs because of Sheriff Bob White's resignation." "Sen. Mike Fasano would consider 2012 run for Pasco sheriff".

Nuke crisis here?

Mike Thomas: "Could a nuclear crisis happen here?".

Snake handlers nowhere to be seen

"Florida religious leaders are holding a prayer service to denounce bills recently introduced in the Legislature they fear will hurt immigrants, particularly those in the country illegally." "Florida religious leaders rally for immigrants".

Nice move, Ricky

"Florida's high-speed rail loss is Qatar's gain".

"High-speed rail was a no brainer"

"Proposed state cuts to education and transit spending — aimed at attracting industries by lowering taxes — will hurt Orlando job growth more than help it, panelists at an economic development event said Thursday."

The only applause during the two-hour event came when former Pittsburgh Mayor Tom Murphy, who has been traveling the country with the Urban Land Institute, said it "made no sense" for Gov. Rick Scott to refuse $2.4 billion in federal funds for a high-speed connector from Orlando to Tampa.

"Your high-speed rail was a no brainer … it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," said Murphy, who helped engineer Pittsburgh's transformation from a rust-belt city to a biotech region. "It could have branded you as much as Disney has branded you. You could have said: 'Look at us — we're a 21st Century City'."

How many Republican Education Governors can Florida stand?

"Nationwide, 47 percent of black males graduated high school compared with 78 percent of white males. In Florida just 37 percent of black males graduated compared with 57 percent of white males." "Florida ranks at bottom for graduation rate of black men".

From the "values" crowd

"Lawmakers consider higher tuition rates".

More still from the "values" crowd

"A Senate draft spending plan for higher education would suspend new enrollment in the Florida Prepaid College program." "Senate plan would suspend Florida Prepaid College program". See also "Senate moves to suspend prepaid college-tuition plan".

The site featured a new one-minute, campaign-style video; a five-question survey; and at least five mentions of the tea party, including one on his biography page and three social media avatars on a page within the site devoted to the tea party.

Another party-line vote

"The Florida House of Representatives today is expected to pass a bill on a party-line vote that creates a new merit pay system for teachers and makes major changes in the way they are hired, fired, evaluated and promoted." "Today in Tallahassee".

While the rest of us were sleeping ...

"St. Cloud firefighter injured battling house fire".

Education "reform" one step away from Governor Teabag

"Opponents tried one last time — and failed — to make changes to a bill that would dramatically reform the way public school teachers are evaluated, paid and hired. Now the fast-track legislation is one step away from the desk of Gov. Rick Scott, who has indicated he will sign it." "Teacher reform bill set for final vote Wednesday". See also William March's "Teacher tenure, merit pay up for final vote today" and Jim Ash's "House set for final vote on merit pay". Background: "Marathon House session on education reform".

"A bleak picture"

"Even as state lawmakers work to lessen the cuts proposed by Gov. Rick Scott in the education budget, they said the numbers they are facing don't look good."

"It's been excruciating," said Marti Coley, chairwoman of the House K-12 Education Appropriations Committee, who told members Tuesday her preliminary budget now calls for a 7.7-percent cut in per-student funding. "It's pretty overwhelming. Believe me."

That's less than the 10 percent cut the governor proposed, but still tough to face.

"Our possible budget is a little bit better, not a lot, but a little bit better than what the governor proposed," Coley, R-Marianna, said during a budget workshop. "When I first heard the 10 percent cut, I kind of gasped, and here we are at 7.7 percent."

Over in the Senate, the education appropriations committee didn't reach a per-student number yet, but Chairman David Simmons also painted a bleak picture.

Merit pay, without the "pay"

"Florida lawmakers are poised to approve a comprehensive overhaul in the way teachers are evaluated and paid, setting up a system that would give the most effective teachers a higher salary. But there's one glitch in the plan. No one is exactly sure how to pay for it." "The big question on merit pay: Where's the money?". See also "" and "".

Bondi: never mind the black thing

Pam Bondi whines that the "Clemency shift upholds rule of law".

Here's a dose of reality, Ms. Bondi, courtesy of The Saint Petersburg Times editorial board:

Attorney General Pam Bondi and the rest of the Florida Cabinet on Wednesday made a hash of civil rights restoration for nonviolent felons who are trying to put their lives back on track. How they did it — with little public notice or input — was also appalling.

Fertilizer and sewage headed for a lake near you

"Environmentalists and local government officials are worried about a bill moving through the Florida Legislature that would abolish all local ordinances restricting lawn fertilizer use, replacing them with a less restrictive state law. ... ordinances banning nitrogen or phosphorus fertilizer use during the summer rainy season prevent pollution of ... local lakes and springs. ... At the same time, another bill moving through the Legislature would repeal a law passed just last year requiring increased septic tank inspections." "Lawmakers consider bill to abolish local fertilizer laws".

Argenziano: Enough "corruption, hypocrisy, lying and greed"

Former Florida Republican State Representative, Senator and PSC member, Nancy Argenziano wrote the other day that

there were grass-roots "Awake the State" rallies all over Florida. For years, I have wondered what it would take to finally stir the people to oppose the corruption, the selling of policy, the hypocrisy, lying and the greed of their leaders. Today, I think they have awakened.

a leading nursing home lobbyist who had not come to Argenziano's office all session, walked into her empty office Tuesday and sat on her couch during the House debate on the bill [and watched the closed circuit video of the proceedings], Argenziano was insulted. ...

Argenziano said she bought the manure at a feed store and had it delivered to Chase with a card that said: "Mrs. Chase, I believe you deposited this in my office in your uninvited visit there yesterday."

Scott to shape Water Management District

"With five appointees, Gov. Rick Scott has an opportunity to mold the South Florida Water Management District governing board into the tax-slashing, waste-conscious body he seeks." "Scott gets majority on South Florida water board, with fifth member's resignation".

Public broadcasting in trouble

"The Florida Channel -- which provides coverage of committee meetings, legislative sessions and other events -- receives the bulk of the state's public broadcasting funds." "Faced with $1.6 billion schools deficit, Fla. Senate ponders public broadcasting cuts".

Florida allows local government to play politics

Jackie Bueno Sousa: "'Florida is among the minority of states that allows local governments to advocate on an election issue,' says Robert Meyers, executive director of Miami-Dade’s Commission on Ethics and Public Trust." "Law is gray when local government plays politics".

Draggin' them knuckles

"Thirty-one Republicans on the House Energy And Commerce Committee -- the entire Republican contingent on the panel -- declined on Tuesday to vote in support of the very idea that climate change exists." "Every Single GOPer On House Energy Cmte Won't Say Climate Change Is Real".

As ye sow, so shall ye reap

"In their zeal to slash red tape this spring, Florida lawmakers are going so far that they have begun making even the state's biggest businesses nervous."

Even by the standards already set this year in Tallahassee — where dozens of bills lifting one regulation or another are rapidly advancing through the Legislature — the legislation introduced Tuesday is breathtaking.

Putnam wants more

"Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam wants control over school lunch and breakfast programs currently managed by the state Department of Education."

But Tuesday, Putnam brought the issue before the state Board of Education, where some members aren’t ready to fork over control. Roberto Martinez of Coral Gables said Putnam’s idea for transferring the school nutrition program is bad policy riddled with concerns over conflict of interest.

Dunce cap

The Saint Petersburg Times editorial board: "Don’t be fooled by the 'smart cap' that Republicans in the Florida Senate embraced Tuesday as a way to rein in government spending. It is a solution in search of a problem in a state where revenue collection has dropped precipitously in recent years, and it will only ensure that Florida — even once the economy recovers — won’t have the means for meaningful investment in things like education and infrastructure." "'Smart cap' anything but". See also "Senate Passes 'Smart Cap'".

"This self-sacrifice thing can get out of hand"

The Sarasota Herald Tribune editorial board: "The members of a Florida Senate committee must have had a momentary pang of conscience last week."

After all, they and the rest of the Legislature are getting ready to cut education funding, Medicaid, unemployment benefits and other social services in their effort to balance the state budget.

It wouldn't be right, the committee members must have thought, to impose such hardship on students, the jobless and low-income Floridians without reducing legislators' benefits as well.

So, the Senate's Governmental Oversight and Accountability Committee swallowed hard Thursday and voted to have legislators contribute 4 percent of their state salaries toward their future pensions.

But when a senator proposed that legislators reduce the rate at which they accrue their pension benefits — a level that puts the part-time lawmakers on a par with police and firefighters — the committee drew the line.

Apparently, this self-sacrifice thing can get out of hand.

RPOFers can't get their teabags around that separation of powers thing

Scott Maxwell: "State House Speaker Dean Cannon says they threaten the freedom and liberty of Americans. U.S. Rep. Sandy Adams says they disregard our 'national sovereignty.' Are they talking about Al-Qaida? Osama bin Laden?"

No. American judges.

And so they are waging war against one of our own branches of government.

Forget separate but equal powers. Some politicians are convinced that some branches are more equal than others.

Scott budget funds controversial "crisis pregnancy centers"

"Since Gov. Rick Scott unveiled his 2011-2012 budget proposal last month, questions have swirled about what his recommendations might mean for particular state programs. According to state Rep. Scott Plakon, R-Longwood, one controversial program — which provides taxpayer dollars to crisis pregnancy centers that have been found to disseminate disputed information about abortion — lives on in Scott’s budget." "Plakon: Scott’s budget renews funding for crisis pregnancy network".

Shocker! Business gets a pass

"The Senate Judiciary Committee officially took up its version of an Arizona-style immigration measure Monday – but watered down its employer mandate." "Senate drops business mandate in immigration bill".

Empty suit strides national stage

"With a landmark spending debate engulfing Washington, the Florida Republican has, virtually overnight, launched the national profile the conservative movement has been clamoring for." "Politico: Rubio brand readies for prime time".

Obama coming to town

"President Obama to speak at Miami-Dade College graduation".

Scott "stuck on stupid"

"Scott should have allowed the private companies interested in building a high-speed train in Florida to at least make an offer before he scuttled the $2.7 billion project, a potential bidder said Monday. 'Maybe we would have agreed with him [that it was not feasible], but we were never given the chance,' said Richard P. Lawless, president and CEO of U.S. Japan High-Speed Rail."

Lawless called Scott's move a "political decision." U.S. Rep. Corrine Brown, D-Jacksonville, was more outspoken, calling it "stuck on stupid."

"Poetic justice"

"There's a possible new twist to House Speaker Dean Cannon's radical plan to reorganize the Florida Supreme Court — one that could lend a new meaning to the term poetic justice." "Proposed bill would move expanded Fla. Supreme Court to new 1st DCA building".

Closing prisons

"The state plans to close six prisons, including Tallahassee's road prison and a Brevard County institution, in a $30-million cost-saving initiative." "State to close Tallahassee road prison".

Yee haw!

"A bill that would allow weapons to be openly carried in Florida has cleared a Senate committee. The Senate Criminal Justice Committee on Monday voted 3-2 along party lines to approve the bill (SB 234)." "Open-carry proposal passes Florida Senate committee".

Scott dead ender

Kingsley Guy: "Space: Invest in NASA, not high-speed train".

Florida nuke safety

"Florida's five nuclear energy reactors are built to withstand a Category 5 hurricane. They're also elevated 20 feet above sea level to be able to withstand the worst-case storm surge." "Nuclear crisis like Japan's unlikely at Fla. reactors". The Sun Sentinel editorial board: "Nuclear power moratorium not the answer".

Scott's heads out on junket in middle of session

"Scott will leave Thursday for his first foreign trade mission since being elected, a two-day trip to Panama. A delegation of port officials, businessmen and Florida Chamber of Commerce representatives will head to Panama on Wednesday and Scott will join them a day later." "Gov. Scott readies first trade mission".

As Ricky packs his golf clubs...

"Two [pill mill] proposals, diametrically opposed to each other but both designed to tackle the state's prescription drug epidemic, are on a collision course." "House, Senate bills differ over creation of pill database".

Miami-Dade recall results

"The campaign to recall Alvarez was launched in October by billionaire businessman Norman Braman after Alvarez successfully pushed for a property tax-rate increase to help plug a gaping budget hole. At the same time, Alvarez pushed for labor contracts with employee unions that included pay hikes for most county workers this year." "Miami-Dade voters fire Mayor Carlos Alvarez over pay hikes, tax increase". See also "Overwhelming vote ousts Miami-Dade County Commissioner Seijas" and "Miami-Dade voters toss out Mayor Carlos Alvarez, Commissioner Seijas".

Pushed by the state's former Republican Party chairman, Sen. John Thrasher, R-St. Augustine, it also would allow public employee union members to demand a partial refund of any political spending if they didn't agree with where dollars were going.

Unlike Wisconsin and Ohio, where state capitals have been engulfed in opposition to efforts aimed at ending collective bargaining, union membership in Florida is voluntary.

The Florida Constitution shields workers from being forced to join a union. The constitution, though, also guarantees workers' right to collective bargaining, a provision Republican Gov. Rick Scott last month said he would like to see repealed.

Scott and lawmakers have taken no steps toward pushing for repeal. But unions feel under fire this spring with the union dues bill passed by the Senate Community Affairs Committee Monday and the state House poised Tuesday to begin debate on legislation that would eliminate tenure for teachers hired after July 1 and linking future pay hikes to student performance.

Ricky on the run

As the session begins, our fearless leader runs: "Scott Heading to Panama to Talk up Florida Ports".

Today in Tallahassee

"Today in Tallahassee: Marathon House session on education reform".

Voucher madness

The Palm Beach Post editorial board: "The embarrassing case of Socrates Maradiaga is more evidence that Florida has not built enough accountability into its school voucher programs." "Protect the state's money: Socrates Maradiaga shows danger of double standard".

Yee haw!

"Against the advice of sheriffs and retailers, a Senate committee approved a stripped-down bill ... that would permit concealed-weapons permit holders to wear their guns openly in public." "Senate committee approves amended gun bill".

Rivera on the ropes

"Florida Rep. David Rivera, under an ethical cloud and facing an expanding investigation into his finances, is in a political squeeze from Republicans in Washington and Miami just two months into his congressional tenure. Republicans are already privately floating the names of potential primary challengers to Rivera, and on Capitol Hill he’s found himself increasingly isolated as leaders try to distance themselves from his troubles back home." "Republicans wary of Rivera scandal".

"Absurd political theatre"

"Marco Rubio’s got star power, but the freshman senator says he didn’t come to Washington for 'some absurd political theatre.' The Florida Republican pledged Monday that he would not vote for any more short-term spending bills, including one proposed by House Republicans Friday that would fund the government for three weeks and includes $6 billion in savings." "Marco Rubio: GOP bill 'political theatre''". Related: "Congress spending stopgaps face no-vote from tea party-affiliated Florida lawmakers".

"The left is taking to the streets."

The Tribune Company is in a dither: "Liberal, union activists staging protests against Republican plans for federal budget".

Unfair to The Three Stooges

"Stephen King compares Rick Scott and other governors to the three stooges".

Medicaid deform

"With its chairman promising 'a new day' in the state's Medicaid program, a House committee on Monday held the chamber's first hearing on a plan to overhaul the massive government insurance provider for the poor and disabled." "Bills to move Medicaid recipients to managed care advance".

Conspiracy to steal $6 million in tax dollars

The Saint Petersburg Times editors: "A former Florida college president, after years of denials, finally has acknowledged the obvious:"

He conspired with a high-ranking legislator to steal $6 million in state tax dollars to build an airplane hangar sought by a prominent Republican donor. As is often the case, former Northwest Florida State College president Bob Richburg's revelations come in exchange for avoiding prosecution, and the arrangement is not entirely satisfactory. But at least taxpayers now have some additional hope that former House Speaker Ray Sansom and prominent campaign donor Jay Odom will be held to account for stealing from the public purse.

Richburg's acknowledgements, revealed Friday, confirm what public records have long revealed about the 2007 deal, and Leon County State Attorney Willie Meggs deserves credit for his dogged efforts to criminally prosecute Sansom, Odom and Richburg.

Florida's new nuke debate

The Palm Beach Post editors: "Until Friday, the biggest issue with expanded nuclear power in Florida was shaping up to be cost. After what happened in Japan, safety will be a higher-profile part of that debate." "Nuclear debate on FPL had begun before Japan's plants' post-quake troubles". See also "Leaders Ponder Possible Nuclear Accidents in Florida" and "Questions raised about nuclear expansion plans in Florida". Related: "Gov. Scott calls on officals to review nuclear disaster response".

They said it

"US millionaires say $7 million not enough to be rich".

Good luck with that

"Some state senators haven’t given up on establishing a drug monitoring database, despite Gov. Rick Scott’s opposition." "Fight is on to save drug monitoring database". See also "Fasano pill mill bill passes Senate Health Regulation Committee".

Right-wing laff riot

Kenric Ward spins out of control this morning:

The only good Republican is a dead Republican. Or, if living, a Republican willing to attack another Republican.

That continues to be the position of some members of the Tallahassee press "corpse," who pine away for the likes of Charlie Crist and Jim King.

A veteran Capitol scribe recently waxed nostalgic about King, the late state Senate president who was never so revered as he is now. The posthumous send-up of the Jacksonville Republican harked back to the good ol' days, when the Senate was so much more "civil."

The kinder, gentler comparison has long been a staple of left-leaning pundits and politicians, who ritually declare that the current generation of Republicans is so much more venal than the one that preceded it.

This game is played nationally by President Barack Obama, who has shamelessly taken to channeling Ronald Reagan.

But even as liberal and progressive elites bemoan today's "mean-spirited" GOP, the rank-and-file rabble is spewing spittle.

Ricky doles out the spoils of politics

"Most are young, fresh out of college, with no previous government experience. Some asked why they were being placed in agencies where they had no background. But in a classic case of a campaign taking advantage of the spoils of victory, they're now holding down state jobs paying $40,000 a year and up."

Many of the youngest campaign staffers found themselves slotted as legislative affairs directors, or in-house lobbyists, for state agencies – a position Scott had called a "waste" of taxpayer money during his campaign. Asked in January about his apparent shift in thinking, Scott said "I feel good about the ones we've hired."

Public records audit

"Local governments in Fla. improve in public records audit".

'Ya reckon?

The Miami Herald editorial board: "Guns don’t belong on campus".

Who needs stinkin' water safety rules

"The health department continues daily monitoring of levels of enterococci and fecal coliform bacteria, which can cause stomach problems and aggravate infections on the skin. The park is closed to beach swimmers." "High bacteria levels keep PBC beach closed | Video".

Meanwhile, "EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson said that false accusations about her agency’s numeric nutrient criteria to govern Florida waterways are proving to be a detriment to their implementation." "EPA administrator: Federal nutrient criteria a ‘myth’".

Dumb and dumberer

"Universities across Florida, knowing that hard times are about to get harder, are beginning to target a wide range of degree programs as the Florida Legislature begins slashing education, social services and other critical programs to make up a nearly $4 billion budget shortfall." "Florida universities may cut some degrees".

Movin' on up

"With the Legislature not tackling redistricting until early 2012, a crowd of familiar faces from both past and present sessions of the Florida House will be looking to make the jump to the Senate. As one of the consequences of redistricting, all 40 seats in the Senate will be up in November 2012 -- giving 14 House members, past and present, a chance to head over to the other side of the Legislature." "Current, Former House Members Look to Move Up to Senate in 2012".

Scott bushwhacks one of his earliest supporters

Mike Thomas: "SunRail has been a dead train chugging since Rick Scott became Florida's first Maximum Leader."

It's how he is going about this that is so awe-inspiring.

He could have derailed it without warning. That's what he did with the super-duper high-speed train to Tampa, bushwhacking one of its biggest supporters, Sen. Paula Dockery of Lakeland.

Dockery was one of Scott's earliest backers. She was mentioned as a possible lieutenant governor. He picked her for his transition team.

This is how he treats his friends.

His enemies get much worse.

"Not something Florida should do"

The Tampa Tribune editorial board: "House Speaker Dean Cannon doesn't think much of the Florida Supreme Court, and he is, through legislation, threatening to change the court's jurisdiction, composition and structure."

The Winter Park lawyer proposes dividing the court and creating two courts of last resort: one five-member court to take care of criminal appeals, primarily death-penalty cases, and another five-member court to handle civil matters. Cannon claims he's pushing this change to make the justice system more efficient and to speed up the legal process.

This is a façade. ...

But diminishing the authority of the Supreme Court diminishes a co-equal branch of government. That's not something Florida should do.

"Last-ditch pitch"

The Saint Petersburg Times editorial board: "The cities of Tampa, Lakeland, Orlando and Miami are performing a valuable service by exploring a final effort to save high-speed rail in Florida. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood has generously given Florida another chance. The cities will need to be creative, but the project’s enormous potential is worth a last-ditch pitch." "Last-ditch pitch for rail". Related: "Cities Spin Wheels for High-Speed Rail Funds".

Florida GOPers pushing measures severely restricting choice

"Fueled by the November elections and their opposition to the federal health care law, Florida GOP lawmakers this spring are pushing a record number of measures severely restricting access to abortions." "Fla. Senate committee part of national trend in passing anti-abortion bills".

"First shot at a spending plan"

"With $24.2 million in general revenue cuts and another $200 million cut in trust fund revenues, a Senate budget committee on Monday unveiled its first shot at a spending plan for the upcoming fiscal year." "Senate Releases Its Economic Development Budget".

"The insidious threat of pasture paparazzi"

Fred Grimm: "Priorities? You ask about legislative priorities. Obviously, you refer to the insidious threat of pasture paparazzi — the surreptitious skulks threatening unwitting farm animals. Thankfully, our state legislators are not so intent on ridding the state of school teachers, immigrants, growth management, gun regulations and the Everglades that they’ve ignored this great looming menace to Elsie the Cow." "Warning: Don’t photograph this cow".

Three-legged stool

Tom Tryon: "The proposal to create in Florida a high-tech biomedical research institute appears to depend financially on the old-fashioned design of a three-legged stool." "Jackson fits Scott's vision".

From the "values" crowd

"Florida May Take Ax To Many Mental Health Programs".

Miami-Dade recall

"Recall could trigger change in entrenched Miami-Dade County politics". See also "Fate of Miami-Dade mayor on line in recall vote".

Hasner to jump into U.S. Senate race

"Former state House Majority Leader Adam Hasner has formed an exploratory committee for an expected U.S. Senate run, the latest sign that Florida may have a sizable crowd of Republicans running to unseat Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson." "Adam Hasner all but declares U.S. Senate run".

Never mind your papers, please

The Orlando Sentinel editors: "The Senate's top bill would direct state and local law-enforcement officers trained by federal authorities to check the immigration status of people after their arrest and incarceration. A bill approved Friday by a Florida House committee would limit such checks by police to people who are the subject of a criminal investigation. In either case, cops would not be in the un-American position of demanding the papers of people they stop for traffic violations or other minor offenses." "Better than Arizona's immigration law".

However, "A committee Monday relaxed a requirement that the state and all private employers check the immigration status of any prospective employee by using the federal government's e-Verify system." "Business wins a round in immigration debate". Related: "‘Patchwork’ pressure on immigration", "Democrats Dig In Against Immigration Reform" and "Florida Senate immigration proposal gets first hearing".

Florida amendment backers accuse Scott of stalling implementation for political reasons by not seeking that approval. District lines drawn to favor Republicans are considered a major reason for the large GOP majorities in the state Legislature and congressional delegation.

But Scott's spokesman denied that lack of action on seeking pre-clearance means Scott opposes seeking approval. He said Scott withdrew the state's application for approval, filed in December by former Gov. Charlie Crist, only so he could review it.

Dan Gelber, attorney for the Fair Districts Florida pro-amendment campaign group, which is now suing to force the state to re-apply for the federal approval, is among the amendment backers who don't buy that explanation.

Week two

"A look ahead at today’s Florida Legislature". See also Kevin Derby's "Political Bits and Pieces". Related: "Your government at work: What happened during week 1 of the Florida Legislature".

"A Cravenly Ambitious Pol"

Daniel Ruth pens another must read; here's a taste: "Perhaps in the riveting sequel to his blockbuster nonselling book, which could be titled My Pet Goat Meets the Florida Legislature, Senate President Mike Haridopolos might consider a chapter along the lines of: 'What a Cravenly Ambitious Pol Should Do When Caught Receiving a $152,000 Gratuity for Penning the Great American Drivel.'" "Scribblings from Balzac of banality".

Running with the dinosaurs

"Science education advocates are alarmed by a bill before the Legislature that they say could force teachers to challenge evolution at the expense of settled science." "More conservative Legislature considers evolution bill".

Under FRS "officeholders entitled to special treatment"

"For the hundreds of thousands of public workers in Florida's statewide pension plan, not everyone is treated equally — the best benefits go not to teachers or rank-and-file office workers, but to a small minority of high earners including judges and elected officials." "Florida pension benefits: Good for elected officials, judges".

Sansom jammed

"Sansom associate flips as trial nears".

West to stride national stage

"He's already a platinum YouTube star, Internet traffic generator and cable TV mainstay. Now freshman U.S. Rep. Allen West, R-Plantation, has formed a federal 'leadership PAC' that could come in handy if he wants to lift his national profile any higher." "West forms federal 'leadership PAC'".

"Slammed and Praised"

"Department of Health Reorganization and Cuts Slammed and Praised".

"Sensible, albeit overdue, legislation"

The Sun Sentinel editorial board: "Easing Florida's reliance on mandatory minimum drug sentences will go a long way toward reclaiming lives and saving money. Give state Rep. Ari Porth, D-Coral Springs, and state Sen. Ellyn Bogdanoff, R-Fort Lauderdale, credit for proposing sensible, albeit overdue, legislation." "Lawmakers propose bills that are smart on crime".

RISEP’s analysis of Florida’s unemployment system

The FIU Research Institute on Social and Economic Policy's Issue Brief on "Unemployment Compensation":

RISEP’s new analysis of Florida’s unemployment compensation system, co-released by Florida New Majority and the National Employment Law Project, shows that unemployment benefits are a key stimulus to Florida’s economy, putting over $9 billion into the state’s economy since the start of the recession.

"Efficiency Measures"

"Scott's 'Efficiency Measures' Fund Miami Dredging Project".

Florida's conservative media has breakthrough year

"Was there ever a better year for a conservative media newbie in Tallahassee?" "Sunshine State News Marks Breakthrough First Year".

Medicaid deform

The Florida Center for Fiscal and Economic Policy report on "Mismanaging Managed Care: Senate Medicaid Proposal Risks Even More Than Before".

Chamber attacks "standards to limit the waste entering waterways"

"The EPA has estimated that nearly 2,000 miles of the state’s waterways are affected by an excess of nutrients, which is unsurprising considering the lack of standards governing nutrient pollution."

Current regulations are based on a “narrative” standard, which simply states that “in no case shall nutrient concentrations of body of water be altered so as to cause an imbalance in natural populations of flora or fauna.”

Now, a new proposed set of standards to limit the waste entering Florida waterways — dubbed numeric nutrient criteria — have become the source for one of Florida’s fiercest political battles.

Nearly every major political figure and industry group in the state has publicly criticized them. Most of the criteria’s detractors argue that they would be too costly for a state still struggling with the effects of recession.

But what is the cost of not implementing them?

"Roadblock in the path of freed felons"

"Rick Scott, the governor who wants to remove regulatory hurdles, has helped put a big roadblock in the path of freed felons hoping to fully participate in civic life." "Roadblocks to restoring rights".

"Our non-blinking governor"

Myriam Marquez: "It’s now official. Our non-blinking governor is encouraging legislators to join him in this wide-eyed adventure to make government run like a business."

If this catches on, expect a spike in sales of Restasis, the tear-creating medication. Because no one in Tallahassee seems to be shedding a tear for the abused child, the sick senior or the poor unemployed stiff who would lose benefits as part of the governor’s “jobs creation” cut taxes program.

"Republican governors jumping over each other"

"Newly elected officials Republican governors, including Gov. Rick Scott, are exerting power in dramatic ways and jumping over each other for a share of the national spotlight." "Keeping up with the GOP governors".

Openness obstacles

"Openness in state government? AP survey shows obstacles".

"Uninspiring political ladder climbers"

Chris Ingram, a political consultant and Bay News 9 analyst, writes that Florida's "Republican Party never misses an opportunity to miss an opportunity. The current field of GOP candidates who aspire to run against U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson represent another missed opportunity. They are all uninspiring political ladder climbers who lack a vision for anyone's future but their own." "An uninspiring Senate flock".

"Half True"

"In offering a rebuttal to Scott's budget message, Smith said Scott's budget plan would lay off 20,000 teachers. Make no mistake, Scott is proposing major cuts to education funding that even Scott's budget chief acknowledges will result in layoffs. But trying to estimate a number is tricky." "PolitiFact: No way to link Scott's education budget cuts to laying off '20,000 teachers'".