RAPE KIT BACKLOG The Florida Department of Law Enforcement says there are over 13,435 sexual assault kits that were collected but never submitted for testing. FDLE estimates it could cost between $9 – $32 million and take between three and nine years for the lab work to be completed. Congress has authorized federal grants to Read more about Issues of Interest[…]
GUN LEGISLATION Open Carry Legislation which would allow holders of concealed weapon permits to openly carry such weapons is gaining momentum in the Legislature. Recently, the Florida Police Chiefs Association’s governing board voted 15-7 to support the measure if additional law enforcement protections are added. Bill sponsors have indicated they are open to amendments. The Florida Read more about Legislative Issues[…]
REDISTRICTING UPDATE Congressional U.S. Representative Corrine Brown continues her efforts to maintain her current district. Brown re-filed a federal lawsuit seeking relief from the changes made to District 5. Rather than a north-south configuration, the new court-approved district runs east-west. Brown contends the new district violates the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Florida Senate Circuit Read more about Issues of Interest[…]
RAILS TO TRAILS The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has ruled on a case originating in Florida regarding the conversion of abandoned railroads to recreational uses. Over 100 property owners had sued seeking financial compensation when such a conversion occurred. In the state case, the Florida Supreme Court ruled in favor of Read more about Legal Updates[…]
Appointments by Governor Scott: FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY Cissy Proctor has been named Executive Director of DEO. She has been at DEO since 2013, serving as the Chief of Staff since 2015. She replaces Jesse Panuccio, who resigned on December 4th. Also at the DEO, Morgan L. McCord will serve as the agency’s press Read more about Movers and Shakers[…]