Podcasts about Florida Legislature

On tonight's program: The Florida Legislature was all set to come back to Tallahassee next week and work on the budget. Then everything went “BOOM!”; Some bills affecting the welfare of young people actually made it through this year's Florida Legislative Session; After a strict security check, we'll enter into a part of Florida that is not United States territory. It's also a place where the Trump administration's international tariffs do NOT apply; Federal cuts to arts funding will hit hundreds of organizations in Florida alone; We'll take a look at one such entity in South Florida; A proposal in the U.S. Senate could help Florida's troubled citrus industry; And a famous and much-loved PBS personality talks about how her dance-loving showcame to be.

Florida ag groups are celebrating passage of the 2025 ‘Florida Farm Bill,' approved by the Florida Legislature, and Pepsi announces it will “accelerate” its transition to natural ingredients amid pressure from the White House.

On this episode of America's Talking, Casey Harper, D.C. Bureau Chief for The Center Square, is joined by Steve Wilson, Regional Editor for The Center Square. They the controversy surrounding Hope Florida and the ongoing tension between Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

TOP STORIES - Trump nominates Waltz as UN ambassador, Rubio as national security adviser; Florida leads as local governments sign on for Trump deportations; Florida man frustrated with McDonald's drive-thru tries stealing cash register; Florida Legislature headed to OT but still TBD on next step; Florida middle school teacher, coach accused of having sex with student; Florida man arrested for having 3 wives in 3 different counties; After wanting golf in state parks, DeSantis must now decide on a bill to ban it; Florida approves bill making it illegal to sell DMV appointments; Top Florida GOP official was convicted in probe into his romantic involvement with an inmate during his time as a jail employee; Vet who killed girlfriend and her 3 children executed in Florida; Entire legal team representing plastic surgeon on trial for Pinellas murder quits; St. Pete mayor responds to reports of graves underneath Tropicana Field lot.

In this episode: Well, everyone knows the Florida Legislature's 2025 session broke down in dysfunction. What this podcast presupposes is…maybe it didn't? Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show:Senate Bill 1620 — Mental Health and Substance Use DisordersHouse Bill 913 — Condominium and Cooperative Associations Senate Bill 56 — Geoengineering and Weather Modification Activities Senate Bill 1388 — Vessels House Bill 1205 — Amendments to the State Constitution Senate Bill 498 — Trust Fund Interest for Purposes Approved by the Supreme CourtHouse Bill 1549 — Financial Institutions House Bill 173 — Interest on Trust Accounts Program Interest RatesHouse GOP demands text messages, emails from DeSantis administration in spending probeLawmaker says DeSantis administration is withholding Hope Florida recordsQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson applauded the Florida Legislature for passing the new Florida Farm Bill, the most comprehensive agriculture-focused legislation in the state's history. What's in the bill, and Simpson's talks with Gov. DeSantis to get the bill into law.

In this episode: All of a sudden, nobody knows when Florida's annual legislative session will end. But lawmakers are still racing to finish up a few big special-interest favors before it does. Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show:Senate Bill 492 — Land Development House BIll 1609 — Waste Incineration Senate Bill 700 — Department of Agriculture and Consumer ServicesFlorida lawmakers may help a mining giant fend off lawsuitsQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

With the party switch of former Senate Democratic Leader Jason Pizzo, Ryan Ray joins Kartik Krishnaiyer to discuss the history of sitting legislators leaving the Democratic Party since the 1990's and the larger general trends associated with this. Note with Kartik's recent intense focus on Canadian politics, he's applying some of those lessons of the current campaign to Florida as well.

In this episode: After key players in a scandal roiling Ron DeSantis and his closest allies refused to answer their questions, Republicans in the state House decide to end their hearings rather than escalate even further. So what's next? Plus: Bills to help banks earn bigger profits, hedge funds bind workers to longer non-competes, and Success Academy charter schools set up shop in Miami. Show notes:The bills discussed in today's show:Senate Bill 498 – Trust Fund Interest for Purposes Approved by the Supreme Court House Bill 1219 – Employment AgreementsHouse Bill 1267 – EducationSenate Bill 1080 – Local Government Land Regulation Lawmakers end Hope Florida charity probe without hearing from key playersTax-funded nonprofit spent $5 million on ads amid abortion ballot battleFlorida pushed anti-abortion nonprofit to run ads against Amendment 4Billionaire Ken Griffin gifts $25M to Success Academy Questions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

Send us a textA mere 3 weeks prior to the shooting at FSU, a spat between legislators in the House killed campus carry. The "Republican" who was most instrumental in killing it claimed it was "moronic" to assume college students should be able to defend themselves with firearms. Even after the fact, she was utterly defiant, claiming they wouldn't have been able to defend themselves anyway. And we're paying her?!?The American Police Hall of FameMuseum and Shooting Center (open to public), Law Enforcement and Civilian TrainingFreedom GunsFirearms, Ammunition, Accessories, Training classes The Gun Site9-Lane 25 yard indoor Shooting Range, Gun Store, Training classesWJS GunsGun and Outdoor Shop, ammo, accessories, fishing tackle, moreSHOOTINGCLASSES.COMOnline business operations platform for firearms instructors, trainees, and Shooting RangesCounter Strike TacticalBest Little Gun Store in Melbourne, Florida! Veteran Owned and Operated 321-499-4949Go2 WeaponsManufacturers of AR platform rifles for military and civilian. Veteran Owned and OperatedDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showGiveSendGo | Unconstitutional 2A Prosecution of Tate Adamiak Askari Media GroupBuy Paul Eberle's book "Look at the Dirt"Paul Eberle (lookatthedirt.com)The Deadly Path: How Operation Fast & Furious and Bad Lawyers Armed Mexican Cartels: Forcelli, Peter J., MacGregor, Keelin, Murphy, Stephen: 9798888456491: Amazon.com: BooksVoice of the Blue (buzzsprout.com)

In this week's Inside Florida Politics podcast, Antonio Fins, James Call and John Kennedy break down the fallout from a deadly and tragic shooting at Florida State University, friction between the governor and Republicans in the Florida Legislature and the local impact of the death of Pope Francis across the Sunshine State.

In this episode: Some bright-red warning flags just began waving in the Florida Legislature, suggesting that top lawmakers are about to spring some last-minute surprises. Meanwhile, Florida's attorney general has some explaining to do as the Hope Florida scandal roiling the DeSantis administration continues to deepen. Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show:Senate Bill 492 – Land DevelopmentHouse Bill 1225 – EmploymentSenate Bill 676 – Minimum Wage Requirements Senate Bill 1672 – Labor Pool Act Countering DeSantis, $10M Hope Florida donation came from Medicaid, draft showsTop DeSantis staff spoke with group pushing state park golf course earlier than knownRecords show Big Sugar lobbyists are working on plans for an Everglades-area mineQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode: Republican lawmakers are digging deeper into a scandal in which the Ron DeSantis administration may have used a Casey DeSantis charity to turn $10 million of Medicaid money into funding for TV ads in a political campaign that was important to the governor. It's obviously bad — and potentially illegal. But it's also part of a broader pattern of abuses. Plus: Is the Florida Senate getting ready for war? And a good day for an environmentally destructive mining giant. Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show:Senate Bill 1144 — Hope Florida Senate Bill 110 — Rural Communities Senate Bill 832 — Former Phosphate Mining Land Ron DeSantis won the battles. He may have lost the war.‘Mistakes were made,' Hope Florida charity leader tells lawmakersLawmaker will subpoena Florida attorney general in DeSantis charity probeFlorida lawmakers may help a mining giant fend off lawsuitsQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

On tonight's program: Governor Ron DeSantis is pushing back on a move by the Florida House to re-open the process of interviewing and choosing state university and college presidents; State parks would have more protection from development under a bill approved in the full Florida House Wednesday; Cell phones and other wireless devices would be banned throughout the school day under a bill that has passed the Florida House without opposition; And time is running out for bills addressing child protection, autism and child care in the Florida Legislature.

In this episode: Florida lawmakers may shower millions in taxpayer money on the beef-cattle industry — while also passing laws to obstruct potential lab-grown and plant-based competitors. Plus: Subsidies for the horse-racing industry; a money-losing incentive program written by a company that profits off of money-losing incentive programs; and a corporate tax break for a national funder of conservative causes.Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show:Senate Bill 700 — Department of Agriculture and Consumer ServicesSenate Bill 2500 — AppropriationsHouse Proposed Bill WMC 25-02 — TaxationSenate Proposed Bill 7034 — Taxation Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode: The state House has suddenly gotten very aggressive with Ron DeSantis, as lawmakers probe ever-deeper into his administration's spending. The enraged governor has responded by accusing House Republicans of betraying GOP voters. The Florida Senate has avoided taking sides — for now. Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show:House Bill 1445 — Public Officers and EmployeesSenate Bill 1760 — Public Officers and Employees House Bill 1321 — Higher Education Senate Bill 1726 — Higher Education Donors gave big to DeSantis' marijuana campaign after getting $10M from Hope FloridaRecords show DeSantis wanted to make university president searches a secret Report: After DeSantis intervened, a state college scrapped its search for a new president and will hand the job to a politicianHope for legislative property insurance fix dimming as Legislature enters second halfQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

Two of South Florida's sharpest data minds dropped by Büro for a couple of cocktails and a deep dive into the numbers shaping our region's real estate market. Anthony and Juan joined us to unpack the real impact of tariffs on real estate and construction costs. We also got into the weeds on demographic shifts, new construction trends, and the Florida Legislature's half-baked idea to eliminate property taxes (yeah, we went there).From hard data to bold predications, this was an insightful and entertaining episode with two guys who truly know the market and data better than anyone.Connect with usWant to dive deeper into Miami's commercial real estate scene? It's our favorite topic—and we're always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at felipe@builtworldadvisors.com or give us a call at 305.498.9410. Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we're always open to expanding the conversation. Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis joins the show and discusses the current happenings in the Florida Legislature.

On tonight's program: President Trump changed the “Gulf of Mexico” to the “Gulf of America.” The Florida Legislature has now passed a bill to make the change mandatory in all government and school references to that body of water; Governor DeSantis and the Florida House have been at odds over what form tax cuts should take and the Senate leadership is now offering a compromise solution; The Florida Senate has approved a Black History Museum in St. Johns County although the House has yet to move on the proposal; And the Senate version of the new state budget includes $50 million to funnel more produce from the state's farmers to the food insecure.

In this episode: Republicans in the Florida Senate are trying to pass a bill that would help everyone from farmers to cellphone owners find affordable repairs when the stuff they buy breaks. Why are Democrats in the Florida Senate trying to stop them? Plus: New records reveal that Ron DeSantis is secretly behind a bill to weaken child-labor laws. And the charter-school industry is having a very good session. Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show:Senate Bill 1132 — Consumers' Right to Repair Certain Equipment Senate Bill 918 — Employment of MinorsHouse Bill 1225 — Employment of Minors House Bill 1157 — Verification of Reemployment Assistance Benefit EligibilitySenate Bill 1238 – Verification of Reemployment Assistance Benefit EligibilityHouse Bill 443 — Charter SchoolsHouse Bill 123 — EducationHouse Bill 569 — Construction and Facilities Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis pushed for child labor rollbacks behind the scenes, records show A billionaire-backed think tank keeps sabotaging Florida workers. More attacks are coming.Questions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

Florida Politics Publisher Peter Schorsch has a scoop on the legislative session and another proposed tax cut, and we get all the latest.

In this episode: Florida lawmakers are working on changes that could stop staffers in the Governor's Office from squeezing lobbyists for campaign contributions and interfering with university presidential searches. Meanwhile, a bad bill written by lobbyists for car dealers has been gutted. And good bills giving people the power to fix broken tractors, wheelchairs and cell phones are inching closer to passing. A look at some of the positive things happening in Tallahassee midway through the Florida Legislature's 2025 legislative session. Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show:House Bill 1445 — Public Officers and EmployeesHouse Bill 1321 — Higher Education Senate Bill 1726 — Higher EducationHouse Bill 429 — Motor Vehicle Manufacturers and Franchised Motor Vehicle DealersSenate Bill 1820 — Motor Vehicle Manufacturers and Franchised Motor Vehicle DealersHouse Bill 235 — Digital Right to Repair House Bill 311 — Repair of Motorized Wheelchairs Senate Bill 412 — Repair of Motorized WheelchairsSenate Bill 1132 — Consumers' Right to Repair Certain Equipment Car dealers try to keep a chokehold on new car sales in FloridaCorporate lobbyists scurry to stop bipartisan 'Right to Repair' billsQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode: You won't find the word “abortion” anywhere in them, but two bills that just passed the Senate Judiciary Committee in Florida may ultimately amount to a backdoor expansion of a statewide abortion ban that is already one of the strictest in the nation. Plus: Bills that would make it it harder for college students to vote and easier for billionaires to suppress worker salaries. Show notesSenate Bill 1288 — Parental RightsSenate Bill 1284 — Civil Liability for the Wrongful Death of an Unborn ChildHouse Bill 1381 — Elections Senate Bill 922 — Employment Agreements Lobbyist for a billionaire-run hedge fund wrote a bill allowing longer non-competes, records showQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

With the 2025 almost half over, the House and Senate have already rolled out theirrespective state budget proposals. And they're only $4.4 billion apart; The Florida House plan to cut state sales tax has passed its first committee; Both chambers of the Florida Legislature are working to protect the sensitive Apalachicola River basin in Northwest Florida from possible fossil fuel exploration; And it was Veterans Appreciation Day at the Florida Capitol.

In this episode: An investment company with a history of peddling poorly performing tax incentives is back in Tallahassee, trying to attach itself to the “rural renaissance” movement in the Florida Senate. An update from Day 28 of the Florida Legislature's 60-day legislative session. Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show:Senate Bill 1322 — Tax Credits for Investment in Rural CommunitiesSenate Bill 1238 — Fraud in the Reemployment Assistance Program House Bill 1157 — Verification of Reemployment Assistance Benefit EligibilityInvestment company writes Florida incentive laws, then profits from them In Search of Rural Jobs, States Weigh Strategy With Checkered Past How Savvy Financiers Pitch Complex Investment ProgramsPayday at the mill: How sophisticated financiers used a Maine investment program they devised to wring millions of dollars in risk-free returns at taxpayer expense Shrewd financiers exploit unsophisticated Maine legislators on taxpayers' dimeNothing Ventured, Millions Gained — Capco's benefit in Florida programQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

Taylor White is a Student Athlete at Florida's Fleming Island H.S. and he's also a member of the FHSAA Public Liaison Committee where he helps represent over 300,000 student athletes. Taylor reports to the FHSAA Board and the Florida Legislature and today he shares his journey - so far - on The Educational AD Podcast!

This week, alongside some pop culture recommendations, we dive into the legislative bills you should keep an eye on as the session ramps up, from labor to voting and so much more. Find Your Representative and Find Your Senator. Learn how to call your Congresspeople here concerning a number of topics. We've donated to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. If you can spare it, we recommend you do the same here. I mention a map of Orange County's rural boundary in this episode, and site the source as WUCF. It was actually WUSF and can be found here.    Pick up your copy of FLORIDA! right here! Thank you to Chelsea Rice for her incredible design of our logo! Follow Chelsea on Instagram here!   All of the music was originally composed.

In this episode: Republicans in Tallahassee want to punish the state's chief economist because she refused to bend to political pressure during a debate last year over an abortion-rights ballot measure. Meanwhile, the speaker of the state House calls for a historic tax cut for consumers. It's an idea with a lot of promise — but a lot of peril, too. Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show:House Bill 1205 — Amendments to the State Constitution Senate Bill 7016 — Initiative Petitions Proposing an Amendment to the State ConstitutionState lawmakers could slash sales tax, saving Floridians billionsInstitute on Taxation and Economic Policy: Who Pays? (7th ed.)ITEP: A Revenue Analysis of Worldwide Combined Reporting in the StatesQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode: Republicans voting against Republicans, Democrats fighting with Democrats, sick-and-tired-of-it public testimony in every hearing, and a long list of bad bills on the move. But also a public execution for one particularly controversial piece of legislation. An update from Day 22 of the Florida Legislature's 2025 session, one of the wilder days we've seen in Tallahassee in years. Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show:Senate Bill 814 — Weapons or Firearms at School-sponsored Events or on School PropertySenate Bill 1816 — Protection of Historic Monuments and MemorialsHouse Bill 541 — Minimum Wage RequirementsSenate Bill 676 — Minimum Wage RequirementsSenate Bill 918 — Employment of MinorsHouse Bill 1387 — Public Employees Relations CommissionSenate Bill 1288 — Parental RightsSenate Bill 100 — Display of Flags by Government Entities Senate Bill 440 — Gender Identity Employment PracticesHouse Bill 875 — Educator PreparationSenate Bill 832 — Former Phosphate Mining LandsSenate Bill 752 — Defamation, False Light, and Unauthorized Publication of Name or LikenessesSenate Bill 872 — Price Controls for the Removal and Storage of Electric VehiclesSenate Bill 1388 — VesselsSenate Bill 134 — Sales Tax Exemption of BullionQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode: Philip Morris, the Big Tobacco giant best known as the maker of Marlboro cigarettes, helped Ron DeSantis defeat ballot measures last fall that would have legalized marijuana and protected abortion rights. A few months later, the Florida governor did a favor for Philip Morris: Allowing the company to sell its IQOS product line free of state tobacco taxes. And now Florida lawmakers are advancing company-backed bills that would cement that decision into state law. Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show:Senate Bill 1418 — Heated Tobacco ProductsHouse Bill 785 — Heated Tobacco ProductsHouse Bill 1517 — Civil Liability for the Wrongful Death of an Unborn Child House Bill 1219 — Employment AgreementsSenate Bill 806 — Florida Trust CodeHouse Bill 1173 — Florida Trust CodeDeSantis grants tax favor for Philip Morris after $500,000 gift Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Lorrie Boyer and Nick Papagni discuss recent weather impacts on agriculture, including blizzards and hail in the Midwest and warm temperatures in California. Nick Hagany interviewed Mando Perez, President of the California Association of Pest Control Advisors (CAPCA), about citrus farming challenges. Perez highlighted the year-round pest management needs of citrus, the importance of advanced technology for frost control, and the differences between Central Valley and Southern California citrus farming. They also mentioned an upcoming citrus specialty Expo in Tampa, Florida, on August 20-21, 2023, for expert insights and networking opportunities. Nick Papagni and Lorrie Boyer discuss the fact that they Florida Legislature is considering a bill introduced by Sara Soto and Senator John Rutters to restrict the incorporation of vaccines into food products, aiming to modify the definition of a drug to include food. The bill's proponents argue it protects medical freedom and consumer transparency. The hosts debated the potential risks and benefits, with one speaker opposing the idea due to concerns about vaccine efficacy and consumer choice. Additionally, a study from the Journal of Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases highlighted the health benefits of strawberries, particularly for older adults, emphasizing their role in cognitive function and cardiovascular health. In the final segment the hosts cover various agricultural and trade issues. They highlighted the ongoing trade war and its impact on export markets, noting the Trump administration's efforts to open new markets. They also discussed the reinstatement of USDA reports canceled due to budget cuts, which will provide crucial data for farmers and lenders. Additionally, they covered a $280 million grant from the USDA to Texas farmers affected by water delivery shortages due to Mexico's failure to meet its obligations under a 1944 treaty. The conversation also touched on the complexities of US-Mexico relations, including potential cooperation and the influence of cartels in Mexico.

In this episode: Republican lawmakers in Florida are considering a bill pitched by a billionaire-backed think tank that would make it even harder for workers to qualify for unemployment insurance. Plus: “Baby Olivia” comes to the Florida Capitol and all the adults play dumb. An update from Day 15 of the Florida Legislature's 2025 session. Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show:House Bill 1157 — Verification of Reemployment Assistance Benefit EligibilityHouse Bill 1255 — EducationHouse Bill 651 — Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Is ‘Baby Olivia' headed to a school near you? Bills in several states would allow screenings of fetal development video.Questions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

On tonight's program: A proposal in the Florida Legislature would steepen criminal penalties for drone misuse in the sunshine state; Two aging Florida parents are fighting for their son to be able to get insulin shots for his diabetes, with the help of a bill state lawmakers are considering; Proposed legislation would change state law relating to comprehensive planning, land use regulations, and homeowners' associations; Florida lawmakers are extending last year's protections for kids online; A key committee in the Florida Senate has passed a bill that targets diversity, equity and inclusion (“DEI”) efforts at medical schools and in state-agency contracts; And progressive groups in Miami are heading to court after accusing the Florida legislature in a lawsuit of illegally gerrymandering Latino voting districts

In this episode: In a single afternoon, Florida lawmakers advanced bills to roll back protections for rural land in Orlando, allow an ethanol plant in a historic city north of Jacksonville, and help hedge funds bind workers to years-long non-compete contracts. Those issues and more from Day 14 of the Florida Legislature's 2025 session.Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show:Senate Bill 420 — Official Actions of Local Governments Senate Bill 1118 — Land Use and Development Regulations Senate Bill 922 — Employment RegulationsSenate Bill 1776 — Employment RightsSenate Bill 1822 — Regulation of Auxiliary Containers Ron DeSantis took money from you and gave it to businesses. And you didn't even notice.A developer-backed bill would unravel rural protections in Orlando, allow an ethanol plant near JacksonvilleRanchland to rooftops in central FloridaFlorida beach town faces explosive fight over ethanol plantQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

On tonight's program: Bills to block diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs in local governments and state agencies are moving ahead in the Florida Legislature; With so much debris – literally and metaphorically – left over from the 2024 hurricane season, the Florida House is advancing a bill to address those many issues; All Florida schools would be equipped with cardiac defibrillators under a bill gaining support in the legislature; And people who must wear electronic monitoring devices are already in trouble if they tamper with them. But some lawmakers want even tougher penalties.

On tonight's program: There are Republicans in the Florida Legislature who admit there's a very good reason why they're following the lead of the guy who's the current president of the United States; It's not only lawmakers in Tallahassee that are under the gun to bend to the president's wishes; Florida lawmakers are tackling big issues sooner than usual in this year's session. We'll get analysis from Capital Reporter Tristan Wood; The Florida Senate gets serious about autism, passing a bill that boosts resources for early detection, intervention and research; And Florida is still wrestling with the matter of name, image and likeness money in college spots.

In this episode: There's a quiet effort afoot in the Florida Capitol to enable a charity funded by the duPont family fortune to shift spending from Delaware to Florida. Meanwhile, an ugly plan to cut funding for Legal Aid — so a few banks can make more money — has begun to move forward. Those bills and more from Day 9 of the Florida Legislature's 2025 session. Show notes The bills discussed in today's show:Senate Bill 806 — Florida Trust Code Senate Bill 498 — Interest Rates Applicable to the Interest on Trust Accounts ProgramSenate Bill 832 — Former Phosphate Mining Lands Senate Bill 752 — Defamation, False Light, and Unauthorized Publication of Name or Likenesses House Bill 541 — Minimum Wage Requirements House Bill 683 — Construction Regulations House Bill 429 — Motor Vehicle Manufacturers and Franchised Motor Vehicle Dealers Banks lobbyists want to slash funding for legal support programsFlorida lawmakers may help a mining giant fend off lawsuitsCar dealers try to keep a chokehold on new car sales in FloridaAfter taking money from Walmart heirs, Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature helped billionaires hide their family fortunesQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

On tonight's program: A bill to help grow rural communities is heading to the Senate Floor; A panel of Florida lawmakers agreed today (Thursday) officials should consider whether a child's injuries are really the result of abuse, or if they could stem from a rare medical condition; An effort to impose stricter penalties on reckless boaters keeps moving ahead in the Florida Legislature; And Republican Florida lawmakers want to fast track President Donald Trump's Presidential Library in the state as soon as he terms out.

TOP STORIES - Florida lawmakers look to improve emergency response and recovery efforts; Byron Donalds wants to fix the insurance market; ‘Trooper's Law' moves along in Florida Legislature; House panel gives first OK to Vicki Lopez's latest condo safety package; Florida creates portal to report immigration law noncompliance; Passenger attacked flight attendant, swallowed rosary beads on Florida-bound plane; Small plane crashes near elementary school in Miramar; Cuba and Haiti could land on new U.S. travel ban; Miami-Dade food inspectors arrested in extortion and bribery scheme.

Part 1:We talk with Anders Croy, Communications Director, DeSantis Watch, Florida Watch.We discuss attempts by the Florida Legislature to limit the reach and power of the Citizen-Led Amendment law in Florida, and the effects that would have.We also talk about the secret Insurance Report, which revealed the corruption in the insurance industry in Florida, and which has finally been revealed after the original 2022 completion.We discuss the rise in electricity prices in Florida and how prices are set.Part 2:We talk with Mark Joseph Stern, who write for Slate.com, and has been quoted in Raw Story.We discuss the GOP spending bill, and its contents, and why it is important that the Democrats DO NOT approve it.a. sequestering for no reason, local tax money that Washington D.C. needs to pay police, fire fighters, teachers, etc.b. transgender rights are being attacked, and SCOTUS is interfering in licensing decisions that professional associations require. (Doctors, pharmacists, others)c. The OPM Director filed a sworn Declaration about demand for firing in various government agencies, and later rescinded his Declaration when summoned to court. He reuses to testify. Music: From David Rovics, “The Richest Man in the World Says So”, 2025

In this episode, FSA provides an overview of the new immigration law that passed the Florida Legislature during a special session in February. Widely viewed as the most aggressive crackdown on illegal immigration, FSA discusses key parts of the bill to lay the framework before listeners hear the FSA's legislative chair, Sheriff Bob Gualtieri, provide keen insights into the immigration problem we are currently facing and what local law enforcement agencies are doing to help the federal government address illegal immigration. 

In this episode: Wealthy communities in Florida have hijacked a program that is supposed to help impoverished areas. Some Republican lawmakers want to put a stop to it. Unfortunately, they also want to help the dairy industry duck competition from plant-based rivals. An update from Day 8 of the Florida Legislature's 60-day legislative session. Show notes:The bills discussed in today's show:Senate Bill 1242 — Community Redevelopment AgenciesSenate Bill 700 — Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services House Bill 565 — Regulation of Auxiliary ContainersQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

On Tonight's program: Second Amendment supporters are rooting for a bill now heading through the Florida Legislature that would repeal an existing law that bans the sale of guns and ammo during locally declared emergencies; There are now 5 members on the Florida Public Service Commission. A proposal advancing in Tallahassee would expand that number to 7; And some libel protections for media outlets would vanish under a new defamation bill under consideration.

TOP STORIES - Citizens Insurance customers in Tampa Bay: your premium is likely going up; Polk County substitute teacher accused of allowing fighting in class facing charge; Tampa officers chase down suspect who hit police horse in Ybor; Florida Strawberry Festival sets new attendance record; Republicans move to block state spending on amendment campaigns; Woman arrested for threat made to Stoneman Douglas in Parkland; Massive great white shark pings off Florida coast; Florida's 'Fallen Tree Act' would end no-fault status when trees fall onto another property; USF, UTampa face federal antisemitism probe amid crackdown on pro-Palestine protests; Allegiant plane returns to St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport after striking bird; ‘Gulf of America' bill clears hurdle in Florida Legislature; Speaking to commission, Florida surgeon general questions adding fluoride to Miami; Bags fly free no more: Southwest Airlines to end free checked luggage policy.

In this episode: As the second week of Florida's 2025 legislative session begins, Republican lawmakers roll out an intentionally unconstitutional plan meant to provoke a legal showdown over the state's voter-approved minimum wage. But there's also a budding bipartisan movement to make sure Ron DeSantis never again pays for political ads with taxpayer money. Show notes:The bills discussed in today's show:Senate Bill 676 — Minimum Wage Requirements House Bill 541 — Minimum Wage RequirementsSenate Bill 7016 — Initiative Petitions Proposing an Amendment to the State ConstitutionSenate Bill 1624 — Higher Education Questions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

On tonight's program: The office of Florida Lieutenant Governor may be replaced by a newly created “commissioner of government efficiency” under a constitutional amendment that lawmakers could place on the 2026 ballot; Victims of dating violence could receive the same protections as victims of domestic violence under a bill now moving through the Florida Legislature; State lawmakers seem poised to repeal the later school start times for high school kids that the legislature passed just 2 years ago; And today was National Guard Appreciation Day at the Capitol and members of the State and National Guard may get more benefits under a bill now receiving significant legislative support.

In this episode: With lobbyists for big corporations like Publix and Florida Power & Light cheering them on, Republican leaders in the Florida Legislature began advancing new plans this week that are meant to make it much harder — maybe even impossible — for everyday citizens in Florida to pass ballot measures through petition drives. Plus: An oversight fight that could have major implications for efforts to restore the Florida Everglades and an anti-abortion poison pill slipped inside a boat-safety bill. Show notes:Links to all the bills referenced in today's show: House Bill 1205 — Initiative Petitions for Constitutional AmendmentsSenate Bill 7016 — Initiative Petitions Proposing an Amendment to the State ConstitutionSenate Bill 7002 — Water Management DistrictsHouse Bill 289 — Boating Safety Senate Bill 628 — Boating SafetySenate Bill 676 — Minimum Wage Requirements Senate Bill 700 — Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services Senate Bill 498 — Interest Rates Applicable to the Interest on Trust Accounts ProgramSenate Bill 832 — Former Phosphate Mining Lands Banks lobbyists want to slash funding for legal support programsFlorida lawmakers may help a mining giant fend off lawsuitsQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

On tonight's program: The Florida Legislature is moving to make it a lot tougher for citizens to put proposed changes to the state constitution on the ballot. Even though opponents say such proposals are often very popular; Lawmakers struggle to craft a plan that saves the state's condominium owners in the midst of a multi-faceted crisis; It appears things haven't been quite as bad for Florida property insurers as first thought; Online scammers consider Florida's older residents a prime target. But a bill working its way through the state senate could nab more of the bad actors; It seems there's a good reason the Florida National Guard has been doing double-duty as corrections officers during the past few years; Governor DeSantis has turned thumbs down on a new management plan for a critical marine sanctuary, even though many experts say it's the best they could come up with; And despite all the focus on private space firms like Elon Musk's, NASA is still the prime driver of America's space program.

In this episode: The Florida Legislature opened its 2025 session Tuesday — and Republican legislative leaders are already forcing Ron DeSantis onto some politically dangerous ground. Plus: Lawmakers move forward on a favor for one of the state's biggest companies. And the most important battle of session is about to begin. Show notes: Secret study reveals insurance companies pocketed billions while crying poor in FloridaFlorida lawmakers may help a mining giant fend off lawsuitsWhat to watch as Florida's 2025 session beginsHB 1205 — Initiative Petitions for Constitutional AmendmentsQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

What occurred this week in the Florida legislature is a Rosetta stone to cracking the code of GOP perfidy. Republicans are incorrigibly bought out by special interests and are just as favorably disposed to open borders as they ever were. The only thing that has changed is that they use Trump's name to obfuscate their betrayals and make it even harder to defeat them in the primaries. I go through the policy and political background of the legislative leadership's fight with DeSantis over immigration enforcement and how it sheds light on every other issue in other states as well. We will not change anything unless we modify our approach to primaries and get Trump to make better endorsements.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices