Tallahassee Talk #3

Well, the Florida Legislature adjourned sine die on Friday May 4th. Uncharacteristically, this session did not reveal the in-fighting and partisan behavior which accompanied previous legislative sessions. In fact, the May 4th adjournment at 4:40pm was a refreshing change from the typical late night early morning adjournments of the past. Is this a sign of new beginnings? Will the legislative bodies remain collegial to each other? Hum, only time will tell.

My money, however, rests on the fact a reasonable compromise on property tax reform was not reached, coupled with the state's tight purse strings (means no member projects) which always sparks lively debates. So, the Florida Legislature convenes and adjourns session in relative peace and harmony. However, we are not out of the woods yet. Both President Pruitt and Speaker Rubio agreed that a special session in June would give adequate time to solve the complex issues relating to property tax reform. Property taxes will make for one heck of a floor debate. I also understand that legislation regarding KidCare and PIP, two extremely contentious issues, may find their ways to legislative debate in June.....Can you say "Let's get ready to rumble!"

Maybe the most interesting part of the 2007 legislative session is not what happened... but, what did not happen.
There was not enough momentum to pass a proposed bill which would have changed Florida's Agricultural Land Assessment "Greenbelt Law". I suppose the "anti-greenbelt" crew will have to move on to greener pastures for another year, I hope the pasture they choose is located on "bonafide" agricultural lands!!!!!

Although very eloquently argued, a bill which would have penalized landowners and business owners for employing "unauthorized workers" did not make it through the process. If passed the bill would have mandated a loss in eligibility for the agricultural lands assessment and/or loss of a business license. In addition, there were provisions in the bill for a civil penalty up to $25,000 per unauthorized worker.

An attempt to remove a tree species from the state's invasive plant list for the purposes of planting windbreaks to protect Florida citrus failed. Although defeat this year I have a sneaky suspicion this idea will "sprout up" again. We all know how hard those invasive plants are to control.

All in all, the 2007 legislative session was a pleasant suprise. FNGLA,the agriculture and business industries in general, had a productive and positive session. We, like House Speaker Marco Rubio, did not pass every "idea" we proposed. Yet, we continued to promote laws which create a pro-business, agricultural friendly environment so, FNGLA members statewide can continue producing quality plants and providing professional services for consumers.

If you are interested in a complete list of FNGLA's legislative activities please do not hesitate to visit the FNGLA website.