FY 2024-25 State Budget  |  HB5003

HB5003 provides statutory authority to implement the $117.5 billion General Appropriations Act passed by the Legislature for FY 2024-25.

The Senate passed H5003 on March 8, 2024, by a vote of 39 to 0. We have assigned pluses to the nays because the 2024-25 state budget contains profligate amounts of illegitimate taxation and spending. As passed by the Legislature, it exceeded the previous year’s budget bill by more than $430 million. Despite the Governor’s line-item vetoes, it provides a massive and unnecessary $28.4 billion in funding for the failing K-12 government school system. It also relies heavily on federal dollars, with these funds comprising about 33% of the overall budget. This includes continued participation in the Florida Medicaid program, which has over 4 million recipients. It’s possible only though immoral and anti-constitutional methods of taxation (e.g., income or property taxes) that take from citizens the wages they have rightfully earned. Floridians should rein in big government and reckless, out-of-control spending.

FY 2024-25 State Budget  |  HB5003

HB5003 provides statutory authority to implement the $117.5 billion General Appropriations Act passed by the Legislature for FY 2024-25.

The House passed H5003 on March 8, 2024, by a vote of 105 to 3. We have assigned pluses to the nays because the 2024-25 state budget contains profligate amounts of illegitimate taxation and spending. As passed by the Legislature, it exceeded the previous year’s budget bill by more than $430 million. Despite the Governor’s line-item vetoes, it provides a massive and unnecessary $28.4 billion in funding for the failing K-12 government school system. It also relies heavily on federal dollars, with these funds comprising about 33% of the overall budget. This includes continued participation in the Florida Medicaid program, which has over 4 million recipients. It’s possible only though immoral and anti-constitutional methods of taxation (e.g., income or property taxes) that take from citizens the wages they have rightfully earned. Floridians should rein in big government and reckless, out-of-control spending.

Freeing Young Adults from “Child Labor Laws”  |  HB49

HB49 removes certain employment restrictions for minors 17 years of age and younger.  

The Senate passed HB49 on March 8, 2024, by a vote of 27 to 11. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because young adults (e.g., 17 or 16-year-olds), who have reached an age of discretion, should not be subject to “child labor laws” or other unreasonable barriers to willful and gainful employment. Further, parents—not the government—ought to have the final authority and say as to whether their minor children can work. Florida must protect the fundamental rights of parents and freedom of association of the American people, which are retained under the Bill of Rights and the 14^th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.   

Ending the Hoax of “Climate Change”  |  HB1645

HB1645 removes references to “climate change” in state law, bans wind farms, protects natural gas appliances, and encourages the use of nuclear power technologies.   

The House passed HB1645 on March 7, 2024, by a vote of 81 to 29. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because this bill prioritizes Florida’s energy independence and resilience, while rejecting the hoax of “climate change,” which seeks to implement provisions of the United Nations’ Agenda 2030 into state law. Globalist elites are fanatically attempting expand their taxing power and authority, encroaching on the property rights of Americans enshrined in the Bill of Rights and the 14th Amendment. Florida must end the unconstitutional war on fossil fuels and other energy resources that will further threaten free-market enterprise, reduce our standards of living, and compromise the integrity of our infrastructure.

Ending the Hoax of “Climate Change”  |  HB1645

HB1645 removes references to “climate change” in state law, bans wind farms, protects natural gas appliances, and encourages the use of nuclear power technologies.   

The Senate passed HB1645 on March 76, 2024, by a vote of 28 to 12. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because this bill prioritizes Florida’s energy independence and resilience, while rejecting the hoax of “climate change,” which seeks to implement provisions of the United Nations’ Agenda 2030 into state law. Globalist elites are fanatically attempting expand their taxing power and authority, encroaching on the property rights of Americans enshrined in the Bill of Rights and the 14th Amendment. Florida must end the unconstitutional war on fossil fuels and other energy resources that will further threaten free-market enterprise, reduce our standards of living, and compromise the integrity of our infrastructure.

Denying ID Cards Issued to Illegal Migrants  |  HB1451

HB1451 prevents a county or municipality from accepting identification cards or documents issued by any person, entity, or organization to individuals not lawfully present in the United States.

The Senate passed HB1451 on March 6, 2024, by a vote of 28 to 9. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because persons unlawfully present in the United States ought not to be permitted sanctuary or residency in Florida, let alone be considered eligible for a government-issued form of identification or license. Rather than pursue blatantly unconstitutional and anti-American policies that undermine the rule of law and erode the value of citizenship, each of the several States should use its powers reserved under the 10th Amendment to end the illegal-migrant invasion and provide for the public safety. 

Denying ID Cards Issued to Illegal Migrants  |  HB1451

HB1451 prevents a county or municipality from accepting identification cards or documents issued by any person, entity, or organization to individuals not lawfully present in the United States.

The House passed HB1451 on March 4, 2024, by a vote of 81 to 32. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because persons unlawfully present in the United States ought not to be permitted sanctuary or residency in Florida, let alone be considered eligible for a government-issued form of identification or license. Rather than pursue blatantly unconstitutional and anti-American policies that undermine the rule of law and erode the value of citizenship, each of the several States should use its powers reserved under the 10th Amendment to end the illegal-migrant invasion and provide for the public safety. 

Reducing the Minimum Age to Purchase Firearms  |  HB1223

HB1223 would reduce the minimum age requirement to buy, sell, or transfer a firearm from 21 to 18.

The House passed HB1223 on March 1, 2024, by a vote of 76 to 35. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because this bill would remove the state’s minimum age requirement that prevents a person younger than 21 from purchasing a firearm, which is both unconstitutional and more restrictive than current federal law. The Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution expressly  declares that the right of the American people “to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”

Temporary Cash Assistance for “Victim” Drug Felons  |  SB776

SB776 allows an individual with a felony drug trafficking conviction to receive temporary cash and food assistance benefits if they are determined to be a “victim of human trafficking.”

The Senate passed SB776 on February 29, 2024, by a vote of 35 to 0. We have assigned minuses to the yeas because providing cash or food assistance, especially to convicted felons, is not the role of government. Justice, rather than charity, is the duty of government, and taxation in the name of “social welfare” is neither just nor charitable. So-called “public assistance” programs rely on the unconstitutional and discriminatory use of federal and state taxpayer money on behalf of some citizens (particularly those who have little or no tax liability) at the expense of others, resulting in more debt, dependency, and poverty. Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are not authorized under Article I, Section 8, of the U.S. Constitution.   

Repeal of Taxpayer-Funded Political Campaigns  |  SB1116

SB1116 eliminates the public financing of candidates for statewide elected office, contingent upon voter approval of an amendment to repeal the requirement in Article VI, Section 7, of the Florida Constitution. 

The Senate passed SB1116 on February 28, 2024, by a vote of 28 to 12. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because taxpayer dollars have no place in political campaigns. Public money should not be used to advance partisan agendas, and laws requiring or restricting campaign contributions amount to a regulation of political speech. Citizens should be able to voluntarily contribute to whichever candidates they wish, but government should never violate their freedom of speech by forcing them to subsidize candidates with whom they may disagree. In addition, campaign finance laws subject both candidates and their supporters to another sweeping layer of government surveillance, violating the personal privacy protections of the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.        

Stopping Anti-Police “Civilian Review Boards”  |  HB601

HB601 (Original Version) would have prohibited political subdivisions from adopting or attempting to enforce any ordinance involving “civilian oversight of a law enforcement agency” in relation to investigating complaints of officer misconduct.

The House initially passed HB601 on February 22, 2024, by a vote of 87 to 29, prior to it being amended. We have assigned pluses to the yeas for this vote because unelected “civilian review boards” are used by radical anti-police activists who seek to redefine public safety in America by exerting control over state and local law enforcement. First advocated by the Communist Party USA in the 1930s, and then more recently following the death of George Floyd in 2020, “civilian review boards” unduly restrict police from enforcing criminal laws. They do so by acting as prosecutor, judge, and jury in cases of alleged police corruption or brutality. Yet, Article IV, Section 4, of the U.S. Constitution guarantees to “every State”—and by devolvement, its political subdivisions—“a Republican Form of Government,” which implies government limited to the ‘rule of law,” with a separation of powers among representative officials, who alone exercise civil authority of, by, and for the people. The policymaking process, including oversight, belongs to the constitutionally authorized legislative bodies of government.

Article V Convention: Term Limits  |  HCR693

HCR693 applies to Congress to “call a convention” under Article V of the U.S. Constitution for the “sole purpose” of proposing amendments that would set term limits on members of Congress.

The House adopted HCR693 on January 9, 2024, by a vote of 80 to 33. We have assigned pluses to the nays because term limits conflict with the right of the American people to choose their representatives. Moreover, an Article V constitutional convention (Con-Con) ought to be resisted. Instead of failing to uphold their oath of office and attempting to rewrite the U.S. Constitution, legislators in Florida should act to immediately nullify all unconstitutional federal laws. Whenever the federal government assumes undelegated powers, in violation of the 10^th Amendment, nullification of such acts is the proper remedy. Article V was designed to correct potential errors or defects in the Constitution, not to “misconstrue or abuse its powers.” The several States must use Article VI to enforce the Constitution, rather than use Article V to change it.

Second Amendment Financial Privacy Act  |  SB214

SB214 forbids financial institutions from using an identifying code for purchases from firearm or ammunition retailers.

The House passed SB214 on May 2, 2023, by a vote of 83 to 32. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because this bill prevents the unlawful use of credit card payment information to track firearms purchases. Recent adoption of a new merchant category code for “gun and ammunition shops” by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO)—a globalist collaborative linked to the United Nations—aids unconstitutional efforts by the federal government to conduct mass surveillance, which, in part, is intended to create a national gun-owner database and confiscate firearms from law-abiding citizens. States should nullify any such actions taken by private or public entities, that frustrate, if not blatantly violate, the Second and Fourth Amendment rights of the American people.

Reducing the Minimum Age to Purchase Firearms  |  HB1543

HB1543 would reduce the minimum age requirement to buy, sell, or transfer a firearm from 21 to 18.

The House passed HB1543 on April 28, 2023, by a vote of 69 to 36. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because this bill would remove the state’s minimum age requirement that prevents a person younger than 21 from purchasing a firearm, which is both unconstitutional and more restrictive than current federal law. The Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution assures that the right of the American people “to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”

Combating ESG Activism  |  HB3

HB3 bans the financial sector from considering “social credit scores” based on a person’s political or religious beliefs, and blocks state and local governments from using ESG factors in all investment, procurement, and contracting decisions.

The Senate passed HB3 on April 19, 2023, by a vote of 28 to 12. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because the government has a duty to protect Floridians’ individual liberties from the all-encompassing ‘woke’ environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) movement. As a political scam that seeks to proliferate worldwide and implement the United Nations’ Agenda 2030, ESG denies the property rights of American citizens by restricting their access to financial services, among others, preventing both companies and individuals from entering into contracts voluntarily based on their own interests with freedom of association. The Bill of Rights and 14th Amendment were written to protect against undue deprivations or disparagements of a person’s “property.”

Heartbeat Protection Act  |  SB300

SB300 prohibits abortion after six weeks of gestation, rather than 15 weeks, with exceptions for rape, incest, and human trafficking, subject to certain conditions.

The House passed SB300 on April 14, 2023, by a vote of 70 to 40. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because Florida should act to prohibit the practice of abortion entirely and secure the right to life for all persons. The right to life is the most fundamental, God-given, and unalienable right asserted in the Declaration of Independence and guaranteed by the 5th and 14th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

Death Penalty  |  SB450

SB450 amends state law by requiring a recommendation of at least eight jurors, instead of a unanimous jury, for the imposition of the death penalty, while providing for the sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole if fewer than eight jurors recommend the death penalty.

The House passed SB450 on April 13, 2023, by a vote of 80 to 30. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because justice is the overall purpose of civil government, and the administration of the death penalty is its greatest responsibility. However, a judicial system is only as good as those who apply the law. Allowing two-thirds of jurors in the State of Florida to recommend the death penalty prevents miscarriages of justice caused by one or more rogue jurors who expressly defy the law during the sentencing process—despite the jury unanimously finding a defendant guilty of a capital felony. According to the Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, “all criminal prosecutions” shall be tried by an “impartial jury of the State,” but there is no provision for a requisite of unanimity. Under the 10th Amendment, the power to compose this jury, and to prescribe the exact proportion of jurors that must concur in its decisions, is “reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.”

Heartbeat Protection Act  |  SB300

SB300 prohibits abortion after six weeks of gestation, rather than 15 weeks, with exceptions for rape, incest, and human trafficking, subject to certain conditions.

The Senate passed SB300 on April 3, 2023, by a vote of 26 to 13. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because Florida should act to prohibit the practice of abortion entirely and secure the right to life for all persons. The right to life is the most fundamental, God-given, and unalienable right asserted in the Declaration of Independence and guaranteed by the 5th and 14th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

Permitless Firearm Carry  |  HB543

HB543 authorizes a person to carry a concealed weapon or concealed firearm without a concealed weapon license (CWL). 

The Senate passed HB543 on March 30, 2023, by a vote of 27 to 13. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because this bill removes the state’s unconstitutional requirement that a person have a “valid license” to carry a concealed weapon. The Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution assures that the right of the American people “to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”

Death Penalty  |  SB450

SB450 amends state law by requiring a recommendation of at least eight jurors, instead of a unanimous jury, for the imposition of the death penalty, while providing for the sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole if fewer than eight jurors recommend the death penalty.

The Senate passed SB450 on March 30, 2023, by a vote of 29 to 10. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because justice is the overall purpose of civil government, and the administration of the death penalty is its greatest responsibility. However, a judicial system is only as good as those who apply the law. Allowing two-thirds of jurors in the State of Florida to recommend the death penalty prevents miscarriages of justice caused by one or more rogue jurors who expressly defy the law during the sentencing process—despite the jury unanimously finding a defendant guilty of a capital felony. According to the Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, “all criminal prosecutions” shall be tried by an “impartial jury of the State,” but there is no provision for a requisite of unanimity. Under the 10th Amendment, the power to compose this jury, and to prescribe the exact proportion of jurors that must concur in its decisions, is “reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.”

Combating ESG Activism  |  HB3

HB3 bans the financial sector from considering “social credit scores” based on a person’s political or religious beliefs, and blocks state and local governments from using ESG factors in all investment, procurement, and contracting decisions.

The House passed HB3 on March 24, 2023, by a vote of 80 to 31. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because the government has a duty to protect Floridians’ individual liberties from the all-encompassing ‘woke’ environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) movement. As a political scam that seeks to proliferate worldwide and implement the United Nations’ Agenda 2030, ESG denies the property rights of American citizens by restricting their access to financial services, among others, preventing both companies and individuals from entering into contracts voluntarily based on their own interests with freedom of association. The Bill of Rights and 14th Amendment were written to protect against undue deprivations or disparagements of a person’s “property.”

Expanding Refundable Tax-Credit “Scholarships”  |  HB1

HB1 expands eligibility for the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship and the Family Empowerment Scholarship for K-12 students, which includes homeschoolers by establishing the Personal Education Program.

The Senate passed HB1 on March 23, 2023, by a vote of 26 to 12. We have assigned pluses to the nays because education is not the role of government. A child’s education is the responsibility of—and a fundamental right of choice retained by—his or her parents. Moreover, aside from entangling homeschool families with further government regulations, these refundable tax-credit “scholarships” mean that “eligible” families in Florida with little or no tax liability are given government funds to pay for their child’s education. Educational freedom cannot be achieved by forcing other citizens to furnish their hard-earned taxpayer dollars for a compulsory, failing, and government-run K-12 school system. 

Second Amendment Financial Privacy Act  |  SB214

SB214 forbids financial institutions from using an identifying code for purchases from firearm or ammunition retailers.

The Senate passed SB214 on March 23, 2023, by a vote of 27 to 11. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because this bill prevents the unlawful use of credit card payment information to track firearms purchases. Recent adoption of a new merchant category code for “gun and ammunition shops” by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO)—a globalist collaborative linked to the United Nations—aids unconstitutional efforts by the federal government to conduct mass surveillance, which, in part, is intended to create a national gun-owner database and confiscate firearms from law-abiding citizens. States should nullify any such actions taken by private or public entities, that frustrate, if not blatantly violate, the Second and Fourth Amendment rights of the American people.

Expanding Refundable Tax-Credit “Scholarships”  |  HB1

HB1 expands eligibility for the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship and the Family Empowerment Scholarship for K-12 students,     

The House passed HB1 on March 17, 2023, by a vote of 83 to 27. We have assigned pluses to the nays because education is not the role of government. A child’s education is the responsibility of—and a fundamental right of choice retained by—his or her parents. Moreover, aside from entangling homeschool families with further government regulations, these refundable tax-credit “scholarships” mean that “eligible” families in Florida with little or no tax liability are given government funds to pay for their child’s education. Educational freedom cannot be achieved by forcing other citizens to furnish their hard-earned taxpayer dollars for a compulsory, failing, and government-run K-12 school system. 

Budget  |  H5003

HB5003 provides the statutory authority necessary to implement and execute the Florida’s budget for FY 2022-23. The $112.1 billion budget package passed by the Legislature (HB 5001: General Appropriations Act) is the largest in state history–a 10.4% increase from the previous year’s $101.5 billion budget.

The Senate passed HB5003 on March 14, 2022, by a vote of 33 to 0. We have assigned minuses to the yeas because the $112.1 billion spending plan passed by the Legislature relies heavily on unconstitutional federal funds, with federal dollars comprising about 35% of the entire budget. It not only continues participation in the Florida Medicaid program, which has grown to more than 5 million recipients, but allocates $3.4 billion of the state’s remaining federal COVID-19 stimulus funds. States should oppose the use of federal taxpayer money for purposes not authorized under Article 1, Section 8, of the U.S. Constitution.

Parental Rights in Education  |  H1557

HB1557 reinforces the fundamental right of parents to make decisions regarding the upbringing and education of their children. It also prohibits classroom discussion about sexual orientation or gender identity in kindergarten through grade 3 or in a manner that is not age or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards.

The Senate passed HB1557 on March 8, 2022, by a vote of 22 to 17. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because a student’s upbringing, education, and health care–including their mental or emotional well-being–is the responsibility and fundamental right of parents, not the government. Parental rights, as with all other fundamental rights, are protected by the Bill of Rights and the 14^th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Election Security  |  SB524

SB524 creates the Office of Election Crimes and Security within the Florida Department of State to conduct investigations of voting irregularities or violations of election law. It requires the Attorney General to be notified if initiative petition signatures are no longer valid, and that deceased registered voters be identified. It also revises the frequency of which county supervisors of elections must conduct a voter registration list maintenance program.

The Senate passed SB524 on March 4, 2022, by a vote of 24 to 14. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because states should exercise their authority, under Article 1, Section 4, of the U.S. Constitution, to implement free, fair, and secure elections, guaranteeing equal protection of the right of citizens of the United States to vote.

Immigration Enforcement  |  SB1808

SB1808 revises the definition of the term “sanctuary policy” to include activities that would prohibit a law enforcement agency from providing certain immigration information to a state entity. It also requires each law enforcement agency operating a county detention facility to assist Immigration and Customs Enforcement and would penalize government contractors that transport illegal immigrants into Florida. 

The Senate passed SB1808 on March 3, 2022, by a vote of 24 to 15. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because state or local governments that pursue “sanctuary policy” undermine the U.S. Constitution’s provision–in both Article 1, Section 8, and Article 2, Section 3–that the federal government shall have the power to establish uniform immigration law and ensure that such law be faithfully executed. Moreover, the 10^th Amendment reserves powers to the states that can be used to address the crisis of illegal immigration and provide for their own public safety.

Abortion Restrictions  |  HB5

HB5 prohibits physicians from providing abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy, except for when an abortion is preformed to save a pregnant woman’s life or avert a serious risk of substantial and permanent “physical impairment of a major bodily function” of a pregnant woman.

The Senate passed HB5 on March 3, 2022, by a vote of 23 to 15. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because states should act to ban abortion and guarantee the right to life for all persons. The right to life is the most fundamental, God-given, and unalienable right asserted in the Declaration of Independence and protected by the 5th and 14th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

Prohibiting COVID-19 Mandates  |  HB1B

HB1B prohibits governmental entities and educational institutions from imposing COVID-19 vaccination mandates for employees and requires private employers to exempt certain employees from vaccination. It also prohibits mandating facial coverings or restricting certain activities for students. 

The Senate passed HB1B on November 17, 2021, by a vote of 24 to 14. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because vaccine and facemask mandates should be opposed, as an individual’s non-injurious activities, including personal health care decisions, are not the legitimate object of government, nor should be under federal, state, or local jurisdiction in the United States. To compel American citizens to receive medical treatment would be to violate their fundamental rights protected by the Bill of Rights and the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Budget  |  H5003

HB5003 provides the statutory authority necessary to implement and execute the Florida’s budget for FY 2022-23. The $112.1 billion budget package passed by the Legislature (HB 5001: General Appropriations Act) is the largest in state history–a 10.4% increase from the previous year’s $101.5 billion budget.

The House passed HB5003 on March 14, 2022, by a vote of 105 to 3. We have assigned pluses to the nays because the $112.1 billion spending plan passed by the Legislature relies heavily on unconstitutional federal funds, with federal dollars comprising about 35% of the entire budget. It not only continues participation in the Florida Medicaid program, which has grown to more than 5 million recipients, but allocates $3.4 billion of the state’s remaining federal COVID-19 stimulus funds. States should oppose the use of federal taxpayer money for purposes not authorized under Article 1, Section 8, of the U.S. Constitution.

Election Security  |  S0524

SB524 creates the Office of Election Crimes and Security within the Florida Department of State to conduct investigations of voting irregularities or violations of election law. It requires the Attorney General to be notified if initiative petition signatures are no longer valid, and that deceased registered voters be identified. It also revises the frequency of which county supervisors of elections must conduct a voter registration list maintenance program.

The House passed SB524 on March 9, 2022, by a vote of 76 to 41. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because states should exercise their authority, under Article 1, Section 4, of the U.S. Constitution, to implement free, fair, and secure elections, guaranteeing equal protection of the right of citizens of the United States to vote.

Immigration Enforcement  |  S1808

SB1808 revises the definition of the term “sanctuary policy” to include activities that would prohibit a law enforcement agency from providing certain immigration information to a state entity. It also requires each law enforcement agency operating a county detention facility to assist Immigration and Customs Enforcement and would penalize government contractors that transport illegal immigrants into Florida.

The House passed SB1808 on March 9, 2022, by a vote of 77 to 42. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because state or local governments that pursue “sanctuary policy” undermine the U.S. Constitution’s provision–in both Article 1, Section 8, and Article 2, Section 3–that the federal government shall have the power to establish uniform immigration law and ensure that such law be faithfully executed. Moreover, the 10^th Amendment reserves powers to the states that can be used to address the crisis of illegal immigration and provide for their own public safety.

Parental Rights in Education  |  HB1557

HB1557 reinforces the fundamental right of parents to make decisions regarding the upbringing and education of their children. It also prohibits classroom discussion about sexual orientation or gender identity in kindergarten through grade 3 or in a manner that is not age or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards.

The House passed HB1557 on February 24, 2022, by a vote of 69 to 47. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because a student’s upbringing, education, and health care–including their mental or emotional well-being–is the responsibility and fundamental right of parents, not the government. Parental rights, as with all other fundamental rights, are protected by the Bill of Rights and the 14^th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Abortion Restrictions  |  HB5

HB5 prohibits physicians from providing abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy, except for when an abortion is preformed to save a pregnant woman’s life or avert a serious risk of substantial and permanent “physical impairment of a major bodily function” of a pregnant woman.

The House passed HB5 on February 17, 2022, by a vote of 78 to 39. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because states should act to ban abortion and guarantee the right to life for all persons. The right to life is the most fundamental, God-given, and unalienable right asserted in the Declaration of Independence and protected by the 5th and 14th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

Prohibiting COVID-19 Mandates  |  HB1B

HB1B prohibits governmental entities and educational institutions from imposing COVID-19 vaccination mandates for employees and requires private employers to exempt certain employees from vaccination. It also prohibits mandating facial coverings or restricting certain activities for students.

The House passed HB1B on November 17, 2021, by a vote of 78 to 39. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because vaccine and facemask mandates should be opposed, as an individual’s non-injurious activities, including personal health care decisions, are not the legitimate object of government, nor should be under federal, state, or local jurisdiction in the United States. To compel American citizens to receive medical treatment would be to violate their fundamental rights protected by the Bill of Rights and the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Limiting Abortion Access for Minors  |  SB404

SB404 prohibits physicians from performing abortions on minors without first obtaining the consent of a parent or legal guardian.

The Florida State House of Representatives passed SB404 on July 1, 2020 by a vote of 75 to 43. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because though this bill does not fully protect the life of the unborn, it is a step in the right direction by disallowing minors from unilaterally electing to abort a pregnancy without the consent of a parent. The right to life is fundamental, God-given, and protected by the 5th and 14th Amendments of the U.S. Constitution.

Taxpayer Financed Ad Campaign  |  SB362

SB362 extends funding for the Visit Florida Marketing Corporation, an expensive advertising project funded at extensive taxpayer expense.

The Florida State House of Representatives passed SB362 on April 9, 2020 by a vote of 114 to 2. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this bill uses taxpayer dollars to fund an expensive and unnecessary ad campaign that is of dubious value to average Floridians. This project has used public money to promote for-profit businesses and subsidized the creation of music videos on behalf of the entertainment industry. Budgeted at $50 million annually, this project is wasteful and outside of the purview of reasonable public spending.

Taxpayer Financed Ad Campaign  |  S0362

SB362 extends funding for the Visit Florida Marketing Corporation, an expensive advertising project funded at extensive taxpayer expense.

The Florida Senate passed SB362 on April 9, 2020 by a vote of 38 to 0. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this bill uses taxpayer dollars to fund an expensive and unnecessary ad campaign that is of dubious value to average Floridians. This project has used public money to promote for-profit businesses and subsidized the creation of music videos on behalf of the entertainment industry. Budgeted at $50 million annually, this project is wasteful and outside of the purview of reasonable public spending.

Expanding Use of E-Verify  |  S0664

SB664 mandates employers use the E-Verify system to affirm the legal status of new hires.

The Florida State Senate passed SB664 on March 13, 2020 by a vote of 23 to 17. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because E-Verify is an effective and free-to-use system, used by employers to determine the legal eligibility of their employees. Unscrupulous employers who hire illegal migrants create a shadow economy that is harmful to legal job applicants. Mandating use of E-Verify prevents employers from breaking the law.

Expanding Use of E-Verify  |  SB664

SB664 mandates employers use the E-Verify system to affirm the legal status of new hires.

The Florida State House of Representatives passed SB664 on March 11, 2020 by a vote of 73 to 45. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because E-Verify is an effective and free-to-use system, used by employers to determine the legal eligibility of their employees. Unscrupulous employers who hire illegal migrants create a shadow economy that is harmful to legal job applicants. Mandating use of E-Verify prevents employers from breaking the law.

Nanny State Nicotine Prohibitions  |  SB810

SB810 prohibits individuals between the ages of 18-21 from purchasing tobacco or vaping products, while additionally banning the sale of most flavored nicotine products.

The Florida State House of Representatives passed SB810 on March 11, 2020 by a vote of 99 to 17, though SB810 was later vetoed by the Governor. We have assigned pluses to the nays because a truly free people are offended when the state interferes unduly in their affairs. Vape products are popular, in part, because they appear to be less hazardous than conventional smoking, and evidence that flavored nicotine products are more hazardous than non-flavored products is scant. The advent of independent “vape shops” have had a positive effect on local economies. They represent a unique opportunity for many individuals seeking to become a first-time business owner, in pursuit of the American dream.

Expanding Right-to-Work Protections  |  HB001

HB001 expands right-to-work protections by requiring unions to release a member upon that member’s request, in addition to other worker protections.

The Florida State House of Representatives passed HB001 on March 4, 2020 by a vote of 63 to 52, though the bill later failed before being enshrined into law. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because right-to-work policies protect workers by banning the practice of requiring union membership before being hired into certain industries. This bill extended those protections by requiring unions to revoke an employee’s membership upon the employee’s written request. Freedom of contract is protected by the 5th and 14th Amendments of the U.S. Constitution.

Limiting Abortion Access for Minors  |  S0404

SB404 prohibits physicians from performing abortions on minors without first obtaining the consent of a parent or legal guardian.

The Florida State Senate passed SB404 on February 6, 2020 by a vote of 23 to 17. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because though this bill does not fully protect the life of the unborn, it is a step in the right direction by disallowing minors from unilaterally electing to abort a pregnancy without the consent of a parent. The right to life is fundamental, God-given, and protected by the 5th and 14th Amendments of the U.S. Constitution.

Ending Sanctuary Cities  |  SB168

SB168 ends “sanctuary city” protections and directs Florida law enforcement to work with federal authorities in cases related to illegal migration.

The Florida State House of Representatives passed SB168 on May 2, 2019 by a vote of 68 to 45. We assigned pluses to the yeas because illegal immigration flaunts the rule of law, is harmful to American workers, and is unconstitutional. The U.S. Constitution states in Article 1, Section 8; and Article 2, Section 3 that the federal government shall have the power to establish uniform immigration law and ensure that such law be faithfully executed. The 10th Amendment allows for the states to address the crisis of illegal migration and provide for their own public safety.

Ending Sanctuary Cities  |  S0168

SB168 ends “sanctuary city” protections and directs Florida law enforcement to work with federal authorities in cases related to illegal migration.

The Florida State Senate passed SB168 on May 2, 2019 by a vote of 22 to 18. We assigned pluses to the yeas because illegal migration flaunts the rule of law, is harmful to American workers, and is unconstitutional. The U.S. Constitution states in Article 1, Section 8; and Article 2, Section 3 that the federal government shall have the power to establish uniform immigration law and ensure that such law be faithfully executed. The 10th Amendment allows for the states to address the crisis of illegal migration and provide for their own public safety.

Vaccine Database  |  H0213

HB213 expands use of a state vaccine database, mandating healthcare workers report vaccination data to an immunization registry.

The Florida State Senate passed HB213 on April 24, 2019 by a vote of 38 to 0. We have assigned pluses to the nays because vaccine databases are examples of unnecessary and invasive medical surveillance by the state. The push to collect and track the private medical information of American citizens is a phenomenon closely linked to vaccine mandates, unconstitutional under the 14th Amendment. Coercive use of medical technology and abuse of medical data by the state represent a clear and present danger to all.

Property Rights as Related to Vegetable Gardens  |  S0082

SB82 limits the ability of local governments to prohibit vegetable gardens on residential properties.

The Florida State Senate passed SB82 on March 21, 2019 by a vote of 35 to 5. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because this bill is a win for property rights. The ability to keep a vegetable garden on one’s private property is a common-sense legal allowance, and variously protected under the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights, notably in the 4th and 5th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

Firearm Restrictions  |  SB7026

SB7026 exploits the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School to push through a wide-ranging attack on 2nd Amendment rights.

The Florida State House of Representatives failed to pass SB7026 on March 6, 2018 by a vote of 49 to 67. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this bill is a flagrant attack on the 2nd and 14th amendments of the U.S. Constitution. This bill prohibits individuals under the age of 21 from purchasing firearms and calls for police to seize weapons of certain individuals, superseding due process of law in gross violation of the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Cancelling Free Speech on Campus  |  SB4

SB4 limits the ability of students to practice free speech on campus.

The Florida State House of Representatives failed to pass SB4 by on March 5, 2018 by a vote of 37 to 75. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this bill contains a shameful erosion of principles of free expression by way of eroding the protection of free speech on campus. Critically the 1st Amendment of the U.S. Constitution affords the people the right to assembly and the right to speak freely. The people must resist efforts toward abridgment of the freedom of speech, a foundational right upon which our many other rights depend.

Supermajority Needed for Tax Increase  |  H7001

HB7001 prohibits new taxes and tax increases from being imposed, unless approved by two-thirds of each house of legislature.

The Florida State Senate passed HB7001 on March 5, 2018 by a vote of 25 to 13. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because this bill represents effective push-back to those who would fund runaway government by endlessly taxing the public. This bill requires the approval of a supermajority in both houses of Florida’s congress before raising taxes. It also requires that each tax increase to new tax be contained in a unique bill, a pro-transparency measure designed to prevent legislatures from smuggling new and unpopular taxes and tax increases into unrelated bills.

Firearm Restrictions  |  S7026

SB7026 exploits the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School to push through a wide-ranging attack on 2nd Amendment rights.

The Florida State Senate failed to pass SB7026 on March 3, 2018 by a vote of 15 to 23. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this bill is a flagrant attack on the 2nd and 14th amendments of the U.S. Constitution. This bill prohibits individuals under the age of 21 from purchasing firearms and calls for police to seize weapons of certain individuals, superseding due process of law in gross violation of the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Dismemberment Abortion  |  HB1429

HB1429 bans dismemberment abortion, a ghoulish procedure involving cutting a fetus into pieces to remove it from the mother.

The Florida State House of Representatives passed HB1429 on March 1, 2018 by a vote of 72 to 42. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because, though this bill does not fully protect the life of the unborn, it is a step in the right direction by ending the gruesome procedure of “dismemberment abortion,” a process of dissecting the unborn so to remove it from the mother. The right to life is fundamental, God-given, and protected by the 5th and 14th Amendments of the U.S. Constitution.

Banning Red Light Cameras  |  HB6001

HB6001 prohibits Florida counties and municipalities from creating red light camera programs.

The Florida State House of Representatives passed HB6001 on January 12, 2018 by a vote of 83 to 18. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because red light camera programs are unconstitutional under the 6th Amendment. Under that amendment’s confrontation clause, a criminal defendant has a right “to be confronted with the witnesses against him.” Furthermore, red light camera programs are an unethical money grab. Device errors are common and well-documented, and much of the money they generate is routed to third-party companies that exploit a system of crony capitalism.

Strengthening Stand Your Ground  |  S0128

SB128 requires the state to provide “clear and convincing evidence” that a self-defense claim is invalid.  

The Florida State Senate passed SB128 on May 5, 2017 by a vote of 22 to 14. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because the right to self-defense is fundamental and tied closely to protections afforded by the 2nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. This bill requires a prosecuting body, rather than the defense, to prove wrongful death with “clear and convincing evidence,” when a legal defense of self-defense is raised following a deadly event. The ability of citizens to protect themselves when under personal threat is a critical natural right that protects a society from falling into chaos.

Targeting Cash Assistance  |  H0023

HB23 requires a work plan agreement for temporary cash assistance and brought public assistance policy in line with federal Trump-era reforms.

The Florida State Senate passed SB23 on May 5, 2017 by a vote of 37 to 0. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because, though this reform of unconstitutional entitlement programs is extremely modest, it represents a worthy effort toward shrinking, and hopefully, in time, dismantling cash assistance programs. Wealth redistribution runs counter to the Framers’ vision for our republic. Entitlement programs are financial crutches that often prevent individuals from pursuing growth and contributing to the economy. Charity has a place in a moral nation, but as a voluntary, rather than government-administered system.

The Right to Self-Defense  |  S1052

SB1052 bolsters “stand your ground”-style protections, authorizing the use of deadly force when one is threatened inside a car or residence.

The Florida State Senate passed SB1052 on May 4, 2017 by a vote of 23 to 14. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because the right to defend one’s home in the event of a criminal invasion is an essential legal affordance. The right to life is God-given and fundamental. This bill allows for deadly force to be used when one reasonably believes that imminent death or great bodily harm is posed by an invader. Authorizing law-abiding citizens to defend the home is a powerful deterrent that prevents mass criminality and disorder.

Strengthening Stand Your Ground  |  SB128

SB128 requires the state to provide “clear and convincing evidence” that a self-defense claim is invalid.  

The Florida State Senate passed SB128 on April 5, 2017 by a vote of 74 to 39. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because the right to self-defense is fundamental and tied closely to protections afforded by the 2nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. This bill requires a prosecuting body, rather than the defense, to prove wrongful death with “clear and convincing evidence,” when a legal defense of self-defense is raised following a deadly event. The ability of citizens to protect themselves when under personal threat is a critical natural right that protects a society from falling into chaos.

Immigration Enforcement  |  HB697

HB697 ends “sanctuary city” policies and requires state and local governments to work with federal authorities on immigration enforcement. 

The Florida State House of Representatives passed HB697 on March 28, 2017 by a vote of 76 to 41. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because illegal migration flaunts the rule of law, is harmful to American workers, and is unconstitutional. The U.S. Constitution states in Article 1, Section 8; and Article 2, Section 3 that the federal government shall have the power to establish uniform immigration law and ensure that such law be faithfully executed. The 10th Amendment allows for the states to address the crisis of illegal migration and provide for their own public safety.

Religious Expression in Schools  |  S0436

SB436 prohibits a school district from discriminating against students and teachers on the basis of religious belief and allows for expression of religious views in schoolwork.

The Florida State Senate passed SB436 on March 23, 2017 by a vote of 23 to 13. We have assigned pluses to the yeas because the separation of church and state is better represented by an allowance for religious viewpoints than by punishing students for their individual expressions of faith. This bill defends the 1st Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and advances the determination of the U.S. Supreme Court that students do not “shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.”