By Paul Waldmiller
Did you know the Florida legislature will begin its session this January? For those of us who have just finished spending time with family and friends on Thanksgiving and now readying for Christmas and New Year’s holiday, Florida Legislators have been preparing themselves to take up new bills for the 2020 legislative calendar year.
Perhaps you were wondering why the Florida Legislative session is beginning so early in 2020 as compared to previous years? Perhaps you were not aware that in 2018, Florida voters passed a State constitutional amendment requiring on even number years, the Legislature meet early, beginning in January and ending March 31st.
Every bill raised by our legislators are brought up for a specific reason. Some bills are to help keep Floridan’s safe, while other bills appear to stifle personal liberties. 2020 is a year with many bills that will impact your life so it’s best to pay close attention to what our legislators will be voting on. Here are some of the bills that may peak your interest.
Republican and pro Tempore David Simmons has announced that he will introduce a bill that would prohibit adults under the age of 25 from purchasing firearms with a fixed or detachable magazine capacity of more than ten rounds.
Republican Tom Lee has endorsed the idea of a bill expanding background checks for guns and stated, is willing to compromise at any cost to regulate gun ownership.
SB 40 Sponsored by Democrat Kevin Rader, would prohibit plastic carry-out bags and straws from stores or restaurants.
SB 68 sponsored by Democrat Lauren Book. Addresses homelessness and gives more of your tax money and increased power to fund, then regulates the homeless population here.
SB 80 sponsored by Democrat Senator Lauren Book is introducing a bill entitled, “Aggravated Child Abuse”. Watch this bill as it gives more power to Florida Government and Courts to take children from parents!
SB 84 sponsored by Democrat Lauren Book. This bill requires licensed facilities to provide victims of sexual assault information regarding emergency contraception. Watch this bill if abortion is an important issue to you.