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Florida Governor Ron DeSantis

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Sixty-Three Judicial Nominating Commission Appointments

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On December 20, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announces the following appointments to Florida’s Judicial Nominating Commissions: Supreme Court Judicial Nominating Commission Daniel Nordby, of Tallahassee, is a Partner…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints John Evans to the University of Central Florida Board of Trustees

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On December 19, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of John Evans to the University of Central Florida Board of Trustees. This appointment is effective January 7, 2025. John Evans, Ed.D. Evans is the Co-…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Two to the Florida Atlantic University Board of Trustees

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On December 19, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Jonathan Satter and Tina Vidal-Duart to the Florida Atlantic University Board of Trustees. These appointments are effective January 7, 2025. Jonathan…

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Memorandum: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Sergeant Elio Diaz

TO: Brian Fienemann, Director of Real Estate Management and Development FROM: Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Thursday, December 19, 2024 RE: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Sergeant Elio Diaz On December 15, 2024, Sergeant Elio Diaz was shot…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Two to the Florida International University Board of Trustees

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On December 19, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of George Heisel and the reappointment of Carlos Duart to the Florida International University Board of Trustees. These appointments are effective January 7,…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces 176 Schools, 5 Districts Earn the Purple Star School of Distinction Designation

PANAMA CITY, FL - On December 17, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that an additional 176 Florida schools have earned the Purple Star School of Distinction designation for their extensive support of military families. There are now nearly 400…

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Governor Ron DeSantis DeSantis Makes One Judicial Appointment

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On December 17, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announces one judicial appointment to the Second District Court of Appeal. Anne-Leigh Gaylord Moe, of Tampa, to serve as Judge on the Second District Court of Appeal Moe has served…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Eight to the Construction Industry Licensing Board

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On December 13 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Nick Burgess, Wayne Mayo, and Steve Richmond and the reappointment of Donald Cesarone, Jonathan Cook, Fred Kobie, Rachelle Wood, and Brian Zettle to the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Five to the Commission for Independent Education

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On December 13, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Joseph Battista and Nelson Caballero and the reappointment of Jeff Cross, Troy Stefano, and Burton “Tra” Williams III to the Commission for…

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Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nunez Announces Fourth Annual Spring 2025 Florida Space Art Contest for K-5 Students

MIAMI, FL - On December 11, 2024, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez announced the launch of the 2025 Florida Space Art Contest. Students in grades K–5 are encouraged to create an art piece inspired by the theme: Liftoff!…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Additional State Office Closures for the Holidays

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Governor Ron DeSantis announced today that-in addition to Christmas Day and New Years Day-state offices will also be closed on December 23rd, December 24th, and December 31st for the holidays. “Florida is in great shape,…

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Florida Again Shatters Tourism Records; Posts Highest Visitation Numbers in State History in 2023

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On December 10 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced record-breaking visitation numbers in 2023. Tourists to Florida were found to have spent a record $131 billion in the state-an increase of 5% over 2022-in addition to $36.9…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Council for Early Grade Success

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On December 6 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Lindsey Brown and the reappointment of Maria Alba-Quesada and Meghan Collins to the Council for Early Grade Success. Lindsey Brown Brown is the Vice…

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Memorandum: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

TO: Brian Fienemann, Director of Real Estate Management and Development FROM: Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Friday, December 6, 2024 RE: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day On December 7, 1941, over two thousand…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Five to the Board of Professional Engineers

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On December 6 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Brock Shrader and the reappointment of James Gonzalez, John Pistorino, Denise Ramsey, and Pankaj “P.J.” Shah to the Board of Professional Engineers.…

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Note To Press

TO: Members of the Press FROM: Bryan Griffin, Director of Communications, Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Friday, December 6, 2024 RE: Executive Order Number 24-267 (America’s Semiquincentennial Celebration in Florida) TALLAHASSEE, FL -…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards 17 Florida Communities the Rural Infrastructure Fund for Infrastructure Improvements

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On December 6 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced $20 million in awards to small county governments and rural municipalities through the Rural Infrastructure Fund (RIF). Awards were made to 17 Florida communities for projects…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Ernie Ferraresso to the Florida Cybersecurity Advisory Council

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On December 6, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Ernie Ferraresso to the Florida Cybersecurity Advisory Council. Ernie Ferraresso Ferraresso is the Director of the Florida Center for Cybersecurity at…

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Memorandum: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Naval Air Station Pensacola Remembrance Day

TO: Brian Fienemann, Director of Real Estate Management and Development FROM: Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Thursday, December 5, 2024 RE: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Naval Air Station Pensacola Remembrance Day On December 6, 2019, a…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards Additional Florida Disaster Fund Relief to Communities Hit by Hurricanes Helene and Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On December 5 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the award of $7.8 million in additional funding from the Florida Disaster Fund to communities hit by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. “Florida sees disaster recovery…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Three Judicial Appointments

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On December 4 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announces three judicial appointments: Johnathan Lott, of Fort Lauderdale, to serve as Judge on the Seventeenth Judicial Circuit Court Lott has served as an Assistant United States…

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Memorandum: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Corporal Luis Paez, Deputy Sheriff Ignacio Diaz, and Deputy Sheriff Ralph Waller

TO: Brian Fienemann, Director of Real Estate Management and Development FROM: Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Monday, December 2, 2024 RE: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Corporal Luis Paez, Deputy Sheriff Ignacio Diaz, and Deputy Sheriff Ralph Waller …

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Runs in Thanksgiving Turkey Trot in Honor of Griffin Anderson

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On November 28 2024, First Lady Casey DeSantis participated in a Thanksgiving Turkey Trot to bring awareness to pediatric cancer in Florida and to honor Griffin Anderson, a two-year-old child from the Jacksonville area currently…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Announces Second Annual Hope for the Holidays Toy Drive

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On November 26 2024, First Lady Casey DeSantis announced the second annual ‘Hope for the Holidays Toy Drive’ benefitting foster families, Hope Florida participants, and Florida families in need this Holiday season. Hope…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards Additional $2.1 Million to Florida's Military-Supporting Infrastructure; Total Investment to Date of $6.3 Million

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On November 26 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced more than $2.1 million in additional funding for military-supporting infrastructure through the Defense Reinvestment Grant Program. This program provides grants to support…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Joseph Zimmerman to the School Board of Nassau County

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On November 25 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Joseph Zimmerman to the School Board of Nassau County. Joseph Zimmerman Zimmerman, of Yulee, is the Owner of The Zimmerman Group, LLC. Active in his…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Emil 'Clayton' Lyons to the School Board of Baker County

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On November 25 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Emil “Clayton” Lyons to the School Board of Baker County. Emil “Clayton” Lyons Lyons, of Macclenny, is an Accountant and Auditor for…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Barbers’ Board

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On November 25 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of John Carroll, Kenny Collette, and Stephanie Lewandowski to the Barbers’ Board. John Carroll Carroll is a Sergeant for the Florida State Guard. A…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Two Judicial Appointments

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On November 22 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announces two judicial appointments to the Orange County Court. Heather Guarch, of Winter Park, to serve as Judge on the Orange County Court Guarch has served as a Regional Legal…

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Florida Awards 300 New Bonuses for Law Enforcement Recruits, Reaching 6,400 Total

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On November 22 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida is making 300 new bonus awards to Law Enforcement Officers and has reached a milestone of 6,400 bonuses awarded to new law enforcement recruits through the Florida…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces 17-Day Extension of Gulf Red Snapper Recreational Season

An additional 17 days will be added to the season for Florida anglers to make up for lost opportunities due to recent hurricanes. TALLAHASSEE, FL - On November 22 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced an extension of the state’s…

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Memorandum: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Corporal Luis Paez and Deputy Sheriff Ralph Waller

MEMORANDUM TO: Brian Fienemann, Director of Real Estate Management and Development FROM: Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Friday, November 22, 2024 RE: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Corporal Luis Paez and Deputy Sheriff Ralph Waller On…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Belvin Perry Jr. to the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Board of Trustees

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On November 21 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Belvin Perry Jr. to the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Board of Trustees. Belvin Perry Jr. Perry is retired and previously served as a…

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Memorandum: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Former U.S. Congressman Andrew P. Ireland

TO:Brian Fienemann, Director of Real Estate Management and Development Bill Braswell, Chair of County Commissioners, Polk County Nathaniel Birdsong Jr., Mayor, City of Winter Haven FROM: Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Friday, November 15,…

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On Final Day of Trade Mission, Governor DeSantis Oversees Second MOU Signing and Visits Florida-bound Leonardo Helicopters

MILAN, Italy - On November 15 2024, Governor DeSantis presided over an MOU signing between Medical Microinstruments Inc., the University of South Florida, and Tampa General Hospital. This MOU is an agreement to work together to introduce…

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On Fourth Day of Trade Mission, Governor Ron DeSantis Establishes New Commercial Partnerships Between Florida and Italy

MILAN, Italy - On November 14 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis led the trade delegation on Day 4 of the mission to Italy. The day included opportunities to interact with startups and businesses in Northern Italy as well as several site visits. In Turin,…

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On Third Day of Trade Mission, Governor DeSantis Tours Ferrari Facility in Maranello and Oversees MOU Signing to Share Research

MARANELLO, Italy - On November 13 2024, Governor DeSantis toured the Ferrari facility in Maranello, Italy. Later in Milan, the Governor oversaw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Florida International University (FIU), Insightec,…

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Florida Continues to Break Tourism Records

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On November 12 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida continues to be the country’s premier travel destination as it once again sets record-breaking visitation numbers in the third quarter of 2024. Preliminary…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Meets with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni

ROME, Italy - On November 12 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to grow the relationship between Italy and Florida. Both share common bonds, values, industry, and trade, and many Italian Americans call Florida…

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On Second Day of Trade Mission, Governor Ron DeSantis Announces New International Trade Office to Open in Italy

VIAREGGIO, Italy - On November 12 2024, Governor DeSantis announced a new SelectFlorida international trade development office will be opened in Italy in 2025. SelectFlorida currently has 18 international trade development offices in 16 countries…

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Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nunez Announces Second Annual Holiday Letters to Heroes During the Holiday Season

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On November 11 2024, on Veterans Day, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez announced the second annual ‘Holiday Letters to Heroes’ to encourage Florida’s K–8 students to write holiday letters to the men…

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Governor Ron DeSantis to Lead International Trade and Business Development Mission to Italy Next Week

The mission will grow opportunities in the transportation and logistics, aerospace and aviation, military and defense, life sciences, and health technologies industries. TALLAHASSEE, FL - From Monday, November 11, to Friday, November 15,…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Alexis A. Lambert Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On November 7, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Alexis A. Lambert as Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection. Alexis A. Lambert Alexis A. Lambert currently serves as Chief of Staff of the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Four Judicial Appointments

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On November 7, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announces four judicial appointments: Lauren Sweet, of Stuart, to serve as Judge on the St. Lucie County Court Sweet has served as an Assistant General Counsel for the School Board…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Jason English as Santa Rosa County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 30, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Jason English as Santa Rosa County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller. This appointment is effective January 1, 2025. Jason English English is the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Brad Embry as Okaloosa County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 30, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Brad Embry as Okaloosa County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller. This appointment is effective January 1, 2025. Brad Embry Embry is the Okaloosa…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Four to the Board of Architecture and Interior Design

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 30, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Ivette A. Arango, Charles Clary, Beverly Frank, and Peter Jones to the Board of Architecture and Interior Design. Ivette A. Arango Arango, of Coral…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Cecil 'Trey' Hightower as Jefferson County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 30, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Cecil “Trey” Hightower as Jefferson County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller. This appointment is effective November 1, 2024. Cecil…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Amy Blackburn as Hernando County Tax Collector

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 30, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Amy Blackburn as Hernando County Tax Collector. This appointment is effective November 1, 2024. Amy Blackburn Blackburn is the Hernando County Tax…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Derek Barrs to the School Board of Flagler County

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 30, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Derek Barrs to the School Board of Flagler County. Derek Barrs Barrs is the Associate Vice President for HNTB Corporation. Active in his community, he…

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Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nunez Announces Winners of the 2024 Florida Space Art Contest for K-5 Students

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 25, 2024, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez announced 12 finalists and two grand prize winners for the 2024 Florida Space Art Contest. “I am pleased to announce the finalists of the Third Annual…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Four to the Florida Building Commission

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 24, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of John Garra and the reappointment of James “Jim” Batts, Donald Brown, and Rodney Hershberger to the Florida Building Commission. John Garra …

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Mid-Bay Bridge Authority

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 24, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Robert Marinan and the reappointment of Gordon Fornell and James Wood to the Mid-Bay Bridge Authority. Robert Marinan Marinan, of Destin, is a Former…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Early Learning Coalition of the Big Bend Region

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 24, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Alyssa Beaubien as Chair, Kristen Inserra, and David “Colby” Roberts to the Early Learning Coalition of the Big Bend Region. Alyssa Beaubien …

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Investment in Marine Infrastructure to Support Recovery Through the Florida Disaster Fund

Governor DeSantis also announced discounts on fishing licenses and progress on Florida’s efforts to take over management of Red Snapper in the Atlantic. STEINHATCHEE, FL - On October 23, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the award of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints Gary Price to the Florida Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Board of Directors

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 18, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of Gary Price to the Florida Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Board of Directors. Gary Price Price, of Naples, is the Owner and Partner of Fifth…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Five to the Rare Disease Advisory Council

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 18, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Alexis Bakofsky, Colleen Bartlett, and Blake Shay and the reappointment of Jon Hawayek and Melissa Jordan to the Rare Disease Advisory Council. Alexis…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 18, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Todd Panzer as Chair, Lola Gonzalez, and Brittney Morley to the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County. Todd Panzer Panzer, of Ocala, is the Owner…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - This week, Governor Ron DeSantis visited areas impacted by Hurricane Milton and made announcements related to state efforts to facilitate recovery following the storm. In Tampa, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey…

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Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis Make Awards Through the Florida Disaster Fund to Nonprofits Assisting with Storm Relief and School Districts Affected by Hurricane Milton

SARASOTA, FL - On October 17, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis visited Tampa Bay to highlight Hope Florida and award $1,000,000 through the Florida Disaster Fund to support Hope Florida partners helping Floridians recover…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - This week, Governor Ron DeSantis has continued to travel to areas impacted by Hurricane Milton and make major announcements related to the recovery process following the storm. Governor DeSantis announced the award of $9.5…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 15, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, Florida Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles Executive Director Dave Kerner,…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards $9.5 Million and Other State Assistance to SeaPort Manatee for Repairs After Hurricane Damage

PALMETTO, FL - On October 14, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the award of $9.5 million to SeaPort Manatee to jumpstart its recovery and help repair impacted infrastructure following significant damage caused by Hurricane Milton. SeaPort…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 14, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie and Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Secretary Jared Perdue at SeaPort Manatee in…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 13, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis will join Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie and Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Perdue in Treasure Island to provide updates on…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 13, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Secretary Jared Perdue and Major General John D.…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 12, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie and Major General John D. Haas Adjutant General of Florida at a fuel distribution site in…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 12, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie and Major General John D. Haas Adjutant General of Florida at a point of distribution site in…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 11, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie and Major General John D. Haas Adjutant General of Florida in St. Petersburg to provide…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 11, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie and Major General John D. Haas Adjutant General of Florida in Bradenton Beach and Manasota…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 10, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, Florida Wildlife and Conservation Commission (FWC) Executive Director Roger Young, FEMA…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 10, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, and Major General John D. Haas Adjutant General of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Preparedness Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 9, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Secretary Jared Perdue, Florida Department of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Preparedness Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 9, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie at the State Emergency Operations Center to provide updates on preparedness efforts for…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Preparedness Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 8, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Major General John D. Haas Adjutant General of Florida, Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, Florida Department of Transportation…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Preparedness Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 8, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie and Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Secretary Jared Perdue at the Florida Horse…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Preparedness Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 7, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Major General John D. Haas Adjutant General of Florida, Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie and Florida Department of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Suspends Tolls To Assist Hurricane Milton Evacuations

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 7, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that he has directed the suspension of tolls across Central Florida and West Florida, as well as Alligator Alley, in preparation for Hurricane Milton. By suspending tolls in the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Preparedness Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 7, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Major General John D. Haas Adjutant General of Florida, Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, Florida Department of Transportation…

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Memorandum: Executive Order Number 24-215 (Emergency Management - Amending Executive Order 24-214 - Tropical Storm Milton)

TO: Members of the Press FROM: Bryan Griffin, Director of Communications, Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Sunday, October 6, 2024 RE: Executive Order Number 24-215 (Emergency Management - Amending Executive Order 24-214 - Tropical Storm Milton)…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Preparedness Efforts for Tropical Storm Milton

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 6, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management Executive Director Kevin Guthrie at the State Emergency Operations Center to provide updates on preparedness efforts for Tropical…

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Memorandum: Executive Order Number 24-214 (Emergency Management - Tropical Storm Milton)

TO: Members of the Press FROM: Bryan Griffin, Director of Communications, Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Saturday, October 5, 2024 RE: Executive Order Number 24-214 (Emergency Management – Tropical Storm Milton) Today, Governor Ron…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes One Judicial Appointment

TALLAHASSEE, FL - October 3, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announces one judicial appointment to the Columbia County Court. Charles Garrett Hill, of Lake City, to serve as Judge on the Columbia County Court Hill has served as an Assistant State…

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Memorandum: Executive Orders 24-212 and 24-213 And DBPR Order 2024-9

TO: Members of the Press FROM: Bryan Griffin, Director of Communications, Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Thursday, October 3, 2024 RE: Executive Orders 24-212 & 24-213 and DBPR Order 2024-9 Today, Governor Ron DeSantis issued…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Response and Recovery Efforts to Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 2, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Major General John D. Haas Adjutant General of Florida and FloridaCommerce Secretary Alex Kelly in Madeira Beach to provide updates on recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Response and Recovery Efforts to Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 2, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Major General John D. Haas Adjutant General of Florida, FloridaCommerce Secretary Alex Kelly and Florida Department of Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. in Perry to…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Response and Recovery Efforts to Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 1, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Major General John D. Haas Adjutant General of Florida, Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities Director Taylor Hatch, Florida Department of Business and Professional…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Response and Recovery Efforts to Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On October 1, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Major General John D. Haas Adjutant General of Florida, Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities Director Taylor Hatch, Florida Department of Business and Professional…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Response and Recovery Efforts to Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 30, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, Adjutant General of Florida Major General John D. Haas, and Secretary of the Florida…

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ICYMI: Governor Ron DeSantis Launches Operation Blue Ridge in North Carolina and Tennessee

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 29, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the launch of Operation Blue Ridge, a comprehensive multi-state agency response aimed at assisting North Carolina and Tennessee in their recovery efforts following the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Response and Recovery Efforts to Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 30, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, Adjutant General of Florida Major General John D. Haas, and Florida Agency for Health Care…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Response and Recovery Efforts to Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL -On September 29, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, and Adjutant General of Florida Major General John D. Haas in Pasco County to provide…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Launches Operation Blue Ridge

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 29, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida is rapidly deploying recovery assistance to North Carolina and Tennessee to help with Hurricane Helene’s impacts in Operation Blue Ridge. This multi-state…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Response and Recovery Efforts to Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 29, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, and Adjutant General of Florida Major General John D. Haas in Dixie County to provide…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Response and Recovery Efforts to Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL -On September 28, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, and FEMA Administrator Deanna Criswell in Dekle Beach to provide updates on recovery…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Activation of Florida Disaster Fund in Response to Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 28, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis announced the activation of the Florida Disaster Fund to support communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. The fund is a component of the Volunteer Florida…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Response and Recovery Efforts to Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 28, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, Adjutant General of Florida Major General John D. Haas, Florida Department of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Response Efforts to Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL- On September 27, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Major General John D. Haas, Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director, Kevin Guthrie, and Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Response and Recovery Efforts to Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL -On September 27, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie in Perry and Cedar Key to provide updates on recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Preparedness Efforts Ahead of Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 26, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Major General John D. Haas, Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director, and Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Purdue at the State…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Preparedness Efforts and Response to Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL -On September 26, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Major General John D. Haas, Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director, Kevin Guthrie, Colonel Gary Howze of the Florida Highway Patrol, and Florida…

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Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis Attend Central Florida Leadership Prayer Breakfast

PLANT CITY, FL - On September 25, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis spoke at the Central Florida Leadership Prayer Breakfast about the DeSantis administration’s commitment to faith, family, and life. They highlighted…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Preparedness Efforts Ahead of Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 25, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie in Tampa to meet with power and utility linemen staged and ready to respond to power…

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Memorandum: Executive Order Number 24-209 (Emergency Management - Amending Execuive Order 24-208 - Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine)

TO: Members of the Press FROM: Bryan Griffin, Director of Communications, Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Tuesday, September 24, 2024 RE: Executive Order Number 24-209 (Emergency Management – Amending Executive Order 24-208 – Potential…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Preparedness Efforts Ahead of Helene

TALLAHASSEE, FL - At 9:30AM September 24, 2024, Governor DeSantis was joined by Kevin Guthrie, Executive Director for the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM), for a press conference at the State Emergency Operations Center to provide…

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Memorandum: Executive Order Number 24-208 (Emergency Management - Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine)

TO: Members of the Press FROM: Bryan Griffin, Director of Communications, Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Monday, September 23, 2024 RE: Executive Order Number 24-208 (Emergency Management – Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine) Today, Governor…

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Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nunez Launches the Florida Swimming Lesson Voucher Program

OCALA, FL - On September 23, 2024, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez, in partnership with the Florida Department of Health, Department of Children and Families, Agency for Persons with Disabilities, and community partners, launched the…

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Governor DeSantis Appoints Four to the Clay County Development Authority

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 20, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Dennis “Rick” Dingle and Dell Hoard Sr. and the reappointment of Tina Clary and Tammy “Chereese” Stewart to the Clay County…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes First Award of $100 Million in Grants to Increase Supply Chain Capacity; Breaks Ground on Fruitville Interchange Project

BRADENTON, FL - On September 20, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the award of $18 million in funding to invest in Florida’s supply chain and boost aggregate storage for critical infrastructure and asphalt and concrete production. These…

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Governor DeSantis Holds Second Roundtable Discussion on Condominium Safety Measures

PINELLAS PARK, FL - On September 19, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis held another roundtable discussion with condo owners and association leaders to discuss solutions to keep condominium buildings safe and to hear concerns about the cost and…

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Governor DeSantis Issues Executive Order Launching State Investigation of Second Assassination Attempt on President Trump

WEST PALM BEACH, FL - On September 17, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-197 directing Florida’s law enforcement agencies-the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP)-to investigate…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Highlights Success of Florida Prepaid Program; Encourages Parents to Claim Available Refunds

ORLANDO, FL - On September 16, 2024, during National College Savings Month, Governor Ron DeSantis announces record refunds to parents through the Florida Prepaid program and encourages all Florida families to take advantage of an affordable prepaid…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Four to the Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 13, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Samantha Ferrin, Robert “Bob” Majka, Monica Russell, and Chris Young to the Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged. Samantha Ferrin…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Five to the Health Care Innovation Council

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 13, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Dr. Roberto Diaz, Rylan Douthett, Geoffrey Fraser, Dr. Amit Rastogi, and Thomas Sabatino to the Health Care Innovation Council. Dr. Roberto Diaz Dr.…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Eudaldo 'Eddie' Lopez to the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Miami-Dade County

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 13, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Eudaldo “Eddie” Lopez to the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Miami-Dade County. Eudaldo “Eddie” Lopez Lopez is a Senior…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Two Judicial Appointments

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 13, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announces two judicial appointments to the Hillsborough County Court. Jeremy Griner, of Plant City, to serve as Judge on the Hillsborough County Court Griner has worked as the Solo…

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Florida Ranks #1 in Education Freedom for Third Year in a Row

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 12, 2024, the Heritage Foundation announced that Florida ranks #1 in Education Freedom for the third year in a row. This achievement is a direct result of Florida’s priorities to expand school choice, support…

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Governor DeSantis Delivers Address at Palm Harbor 9/11 Memorial Ceremony

PALM HARBOR, FL - On September 11, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis spoke at the Palm Harbor 9/11 Memorial Ceremony to honor the memories of those lost in the attacks on September 11th, 2001. A transcript of Governor Ron DeSantis’ remarks is…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Highlights Hope Florida's Role with the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice

GREENVILLE, FL - On September 9, 2024, First Lady Casey DeSantis was joined by Department of Juvenile Justice Secretary Eric Hall and Hope Navigators to highlight services offered by Hope Florida – A Pathway to Potential, Hope Florida’s…

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Governor DeSantis Announces over $122 Million for Rural Infrastructure

LAKE CITY, FL - On September 10, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced more than $122 million in awards to small county governments and rural municipalities across the state through the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) Small…

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Memorandum: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Patriot Day

TO: Brian Fienemann, Director of Real Estate Management and Development FROM: Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Tuesday, September 10, 2024 RE: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Patriot Day It has been 23 years since the United States of…

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Governor DeSantis Holds Roundtable Discussion on Condominium Safety Measures

MIAMI LAKES, FL - On September 6, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis held a roundtable discussion with condo owners and association leaders to discuss solutions to keep condominium buildings safe and to hear concerns about the cost and implementation of…

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Governor DeSantis DeSantis Makes One Judicial Appointment

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 5, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announces one judicial appointment to the Palm Beach County Court. Katherine Mullinax, of Jupiter, to serve as Judge on the Palm Beach County Court Mullinax has served as the…

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Governor DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis Highlight Initiatives That Strengthen Florida Families at the 2024 Children and Families Summit

ORLANDO, FL - On September 4, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis highlighted two transformative initiatives – Father First and Hope Florida – during a fireside chat at the Florida Department of Children and…

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Governor DeSantis Highlights Success in Reducing Nursing Shortages Through LINE and PIPELINE Funds

DAYTONA BEACH, FL - On September 3, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis visited Daytona State College to highlight Florida’s success in enhancing the nursing talent pipeline through the Prepping Institutions, Programs, Employers and Learners through…

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Governor DeSantis DeSantis Makes One Judicial Appointment

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On September 3, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announces one judicial appointment to the Bay County Court. Tracy Smith, of Lynn Haven, to serve as Judge on the Bay County Court Smith has served as an Assistant State Attorney for the…

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Governor DeSantis Awards the Nature Coast the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund and Rural Infrastructure Fund for Infrastructure Improvements

CRYSTAL RIVER, FL - On August 29, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded funds for workforce development and infrastructure improvements through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund (JGGF) and the Rural Infrastructure Fund (RIF). Awards were made to…

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Governor DeSantis Highlights Florida's Law and Order Priorities

WINTER HAVEN, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted Florida’s actions to uphold law and order, protect the state from fentanyl and other illegal drugs, and curb illegal immigration. Last year, Governor DeSantis signed legislation…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints Two to the Northwest Florida Water Management District

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 27, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of Kellie Ralston and Anna Upton to the Northwest Florida Water Management District. Kellie Ralston Ralston is the Vice President of Conservation and…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Southwest Florida Water Management District

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 27, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Joshua Gamblin and the reappointment of John Mitten and Michelle Williamson to the Southwest Florida Water Management District. Joshua Gamblin Gamblin is…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints Two to the South Florida Water Management District

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 27, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of Benjamin Butler and Carlos “Charlie” Martinez to the South Florida Water Management District. Benjamin Butler Butler, of Lorida, is Partner…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Two to the St. Johns River Water Management District

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 27, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of Douglas Bournique and Rob Bradley to the St. Johns River Water Management District. Douglas Bournique Bournique is the Executive Vice President and…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Suwannee River Water Management District

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 27, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of George Wheeler and the reappointment of Harry Smith and Larry Thompson to the Suwannee River Water Management District. George Wheeler Wheeler, of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Daniel Foganholi to the State Board of Education

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 23, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Daniel Foganholi to the State Board of Education. This appointment is effective November 20, 2024. Daniel Foganholi Foganholi, of Coral Springs, is the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards More Than $5.8 Million for Infrastructure Improvements at the Space Coast Regional Airport Through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund

TITUSVILLE, FL - On August 22, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded over $5.8 million to the Titusville-Cocoa Airport Authority through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund (JGGF). The funding will support roadway infrastructure by creating direct…

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Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis Announce Emergency Response Hope Florida Expansion

SARASOTA, FL - On August 21, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis announced “Activate Hope,” an expansion of Hope Florida to serve Floridians recovering from the impacts of disasters. Serving as the emergency…

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Florida's Statewide Unemployment Rate Lower Than the National Rate for 45 Consecutive Months

Florida has the lowest statewide unemployment rate of top 10 largest states TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 16, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida’s unemployment rate has been lower than the national rate for 45 consecutive…

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Governor DeSantis Appoints Three to the State Emergency Response Commission

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 16, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Courtney Drummond, Alexis Lambert, and Ivey Yarger to the State Emergency Response Commission. Courtney Drummond Drummond is the Senior Vice President of…

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Governor DeSantis Appoints Four to the Board of Medicine

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 16, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Dr. Steven Christie and Dr. James “Matthew” Knight and the reappointment of Dr. Scot Ackerman and Dr. Hector Vila to the Board of Medicine. Dr.…

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Governor DeSantis Appoints Six to the Electrical Contractors Licensing Board

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 16, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Douglas Bassett, Rafael Echarri, Robert Lombardo, Kevin McElroy, Donald Smith Jr., and Clarence Tibbs to the Electrical Contractors Licensing Board. …

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Governor DeSantis Appoints Two to the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota District Board of Trustees

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 16, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Jaime DiDomenico and Brittany Riner to the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota District Board of Trustees. Jaime DiDomenico DiDomenico, of Nokomis,…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Greatest Second-Quarter Tourism Numbers in Florida History

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 15, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida welcomed a record-breaking 34.2 million visitors in the second quarter of 2024. This figure represents a 1.7% increase over the same period in 2023, setting a new…

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Governor DeSantis Appoints Five to the Children’s Services Council of Broward County

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 9, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Alyssa Foganholi, Julia Musella, and Christine Thompson and the reappointment of David Kenton and Jeffrey Wood to the Children’s Services Council of…

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Governor DeSantis Appoints Two to the South Florida State College District Board of Trustees

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 9, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Denise Grimsley and Alison Hancock to the South Florida State College District Board of Trustees. Denise Grimsley Grimsley, of Zolfo Springs, is the Chief…

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Governor DeSantis Appoints Three to the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 9, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Adam Mohammadbhoy as Chair, Denise Marzullo and Christina Riggio to the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County. Adam Mohammadbhoy Mohammadbhoy is a…

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Governor DeSantis Appoints Three to the Early Learning Coalition of the Emerald Coast

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 9, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Amanda Grandy as Chair, Gretta Barrett, and Sarah Davis to the Early Learning Coalition of the Emerald Coast. Amanda Grandy Grandy is a Realtor at Amanda…

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Memorandum: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Master Deputy Sheriff Bradley Link

TO: Brian Fienemann, Director of Real Estate Management and Development Kirby Smith, Chair of County Commission, Lake County Tim Murry, Mayor, City of Clermont FROM: Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Thursday, August 8, 2024 RE: Flags at Half-Staff…

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Governor DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery to Hurricane Debby

Governor DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery to Hurricane Debby TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 8, 2024, Governor DeSantis provided updates on response and recovery efforts to Hurricane Debby. The Florida Division of Emergency…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards $8 Million to Support Roadway and Transit Infrastructure in Miami Through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 8, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded $8 million to Miami-Dade County through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund (JGGF) to support roadway infrastructure at Miami Freedom Park. The JGGF award will help expand business…

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Governor DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery to Hurricane Debby

SARASOTA, FL - On August 7, 2024, Governor DeSantis traveled to impacted areas across the state with Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie to assess damages and connect with residents and businesses on…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Visits Sarasota and Live Oak to Show Support for Businesses Damaged or Disrupted by Hurricane Debby

SARASOTA, FL - On August 7, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis visited Sarasota and Live Oak to support small businesses damaged or disrupted by Hurricane Debby. “Florida is still open for business,” said Governor Ron DeSantis.…

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Governor DeSantis Issues Updates on Debby Response; Announces Activation of Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan to Support Local Impacted Businesses

STEINHATCHEE, FL - On August 6, 2024, Governor DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie at Roy’s Restaurant in Steinhatchee to provide updates on Hurricane Debby response and…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Visits Taylor County to Provide Storm Updates, Survey Hurricane Damage, and Bring Support for Residents Following Hurricane Debby

First Lady Casey DeSantis Joins Governor DeSantis and Visits Hope Bus at Taylor County Disaster Services Center Following Hurricane Debby PERRY, FL - On August 6, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis held a press conference at Roy’s Restaurant in…

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Governor DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response to Hurricane Debby

TALLAHASSEE, FL - As of this morning, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) emergency response personnel have completed preliminary assessments of over 10,000 lane miles of state roads. 181 FDOT crews have performed cut-and-toss operations…

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Governor DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response; Hurricane Debby Makes Landfall as a Category 1 in the Big Bend

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 5, 2024, Governor DeSantis provided updates on Hurricane Debby in his third press conference at the State Emergency Operations Center with Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie…

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Governor DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response as Tropical Storm Debby Moves Out of North Florida

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 5, 2024, Governor DeSantis provided updates on Hurricane Debby in his fourth press conference at the State Emergency Operations Center with Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie…

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Governor DeSantis Issues Updates on State Preparations Ahead of Tropical Storm Debby

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 4, 2024, Governor DeSantis provided updates on Tropical Storm Debby at the State Emergency Operations Center with Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, FDOT Secretary Jared W.…

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Governor DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response to Tropical Storm Debby

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On August 4, 2024, Governor DeSantis provided updates on Tropical Storm Debby at the State Emergency Operations Center with Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie ahead of landfall from…

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Governor DeSantis Issues Updates on State Preparations Ahead of Severe Weather and Urges Floridians to Prepare Now

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Under the leadership of Governor DeSantis, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) continues to monitor and prepare for potential impacts from Tropical Depression Four. Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-157 on…

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Governor DeSantis Issues Updates on State Preparations Ahead of Severe Weather and Urges Floridians to Prepare

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Under the leadership of Governor DeSantis, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) continues to monitor and prepare for potential impacts from Potential Tropical Cyclone Four. Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order…

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Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nunez Leads Mission to United Kingdom for Farnborough International Airshow

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez recently returned from an aerospace and aviation mission to the United Kingdom for the Farnborough International Airshow, which took place from July 22-26. During the mission, organized in…

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Memorandum: Executive Order Number 24-157 (Emergency Management - Amending Executive Order 24-156 - Tropical Cyclone Four)

TO: Members of the Press FROM: Bryan Griffin, Director of Communications, Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Friday, August 2, 2024 RE: Executive Order 24-157 (Emergency Management – Amending Executive Order 24-156-Tropical Cyclone Four)…

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Memorandum: Executive Order 24-156 (Emergency Management - Invest 97L)

TO: Members of the Press FROM: Bryan Griffin, Director of Communications, Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Thursday, August 1, 2024 RE: Executive Order 24-156 (Emergency Management – Invest 97L) Ahead of potential landfall of Invest 97L in…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Awards Orlando Nonprofits $40,000 From the Hope Florida Fund

Announcement comes one day after awarding nearly $400,000 to top-performing Hope Florida churches. ORLANDO, FL - On July 30, 2024, First Lady Casey DeSantis joined nonprofit organizations ‘Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Inc.’ and…

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Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis Make Awards to Top 13 Hope Florida CarePortal Churches

TAMPA, FL - On July 29, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis highlighted the success of the Hope Florida Initiative and awarded the top two need-meeting Hope Florida CarePortal churches with $50,000 each and awarded 11 top…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Tallahassee State College District Board of Trustees

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On July 26, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Monesia Brown and the reappointment of Jonathan Kilpatrick and Frank “Monte” Stevens to the Tallahassee State College District Board of Trustees. …

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Four to the Graduate Medical Education Committee

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On July 26, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Wayne Chutkan, Dr. Chris Ghaemmaghami, Matthew Love, and Dr. Michelle Mendez to the Graduate Medical Education Committee. Wayne Chutkan Chutkan is the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Eleven to the Florida Faith-Based and Community-Based Advisory Council

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On July 26, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Kevin Baird, Tess Dewhirst, Joseph Knittig, Robert Pacienza, Marilyn Rivera, Megan Rose, and Michael Watkins and the reappointment of James “Scott”…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces the Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday

AVENTURA, FL - On July 25, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, which begins on Monday, July 29, and runs for two weeks, ending on Sunday, August 11. The sales tax holiday will help families to save money on…

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Aviation Company AURA AERO Inc. Announces Decision to Locate 500,000 Square-Foot Manufacturing and Assembly Plant in Florida

New facility is estimated to bring 1,030 high paying jobs to Florida LONDON - During Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez’s international mission to the Farnborough Air Show, aviation company AURA AERO Inc. announces the opening of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards $7.2 Million to St. Petersburg College Through the Job Growth Grant Fund and the Workforce Development Capitalization Grant Program

ST. PETERSBURG, FL - On July 24, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded funds for workforce development through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund (JGGF) and the Workforce Development Capitalization Grant Program. Awards were made to St. Petersburg…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Addresses Florida Sheriffs' Association Summer Conference

ORLANDO, FL - On July 23, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis addressed the Florida Sheriffs Association to reaffirm Florida’s support for law enforcement. In Florida, crime remains at a 50-year low thanks to the Governor’s commitment to law and…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Hosts Cooking Class for Florida Youth in Foster Care

ORLANDO, FL - On July 23, 2024, First Lady Casey DeSantis, joined by Department of Children and Families Secretary Shevaun Harris and Guardian ad Litem Executive Director Dennis Moore, hosted a hands-on, healthy cooking class for Hope Florida…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Presents $20,000 Awards to Five Florida Teacher of the Year Finalists

ORLANDO, FL - On July 23, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis recognized the five Florida 2025 Teacher of the Year finalists. Governor DeSantis presented each finalist with a $20,000 check. The winner, who will be announced at the annual Teacher of the Year…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Highlights Hope Florida Success at the Florida Sheriffs Association Summer Conference

Nearly 130,000 printed resources have been distributed to law enforcement across the state as a way to help Floridians find help. ORLANDO, FL - On July 22, 2024, First Lady Casey DeSantis spoke at the Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA) Summer…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Two Judicial Appointments

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On July 22, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announces two judicial appointments: Adam Lee, of Gainesville, to serve as Judge on the Alachua County Court Lee is a Managing Member at Adam Lee Law PLLC. He has worked at the firm since…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Brett Hinely to the School Board of Okaloosa County

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On July 19, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Brett Hinely to the School Board of Okaloosa County. This appointment is effective August 2, 2024. Brett Hinely Hinely, of Niceville, is the President of Cove…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints William 'Scott' Ramsey to the School Board of Osceola County

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On July 19, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of William “Scott” Ramsey to the School Board of Osceola County. William “Scott” Ramsey Ramsey, of Kenansville, is the Owner and Operator…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Howard Baum to the Board of Chiropractic Medicine

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On July 19, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Howard Baum to the Board of Chiropractic Medicine. Howard Baum Baum, of Brandon, is a self-employed Licensed Mental Health Counselor. He is a veteran of the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Six to the Florida Greenways and Trails Council

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On July 19, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Paul “P.J.” Marinelli, Karl Rasmussen, and Morgan Wilbanks and the reappointment of Michael Stephens, Scott Stryker, and Stephanie Wardein to the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Michael Halpern to the Lower Florida Keys Hospital District

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On July 12, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Michael Halpern to the Lower Florida Keys Hospital District. Michael Halpern Halpern is an Attorney at Michael Halpern, P.A., the Owner of the Southernmost…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Four to the Florida Real Estate Appraisal Board

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On July 12, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Brandon Graves, Frank Griffin, and Nicole Ramos Jones and the reappointment of Prakash “Paul” Patel to the Florida Real Estate Appraisal Board. …

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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards More Than $12 Million in Northwest Florida Through the Job Growth Grant Fund

PENSACOLA, FL - On July 1, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded funds for workforce development and infrastructure improvements through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund (JGGF) and the Defense Infrastructure Grant (DIG). Awards were made to Pensacola…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Institute for Freedom in the Americas Board of Directors

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 28, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Carlos Diaz-Rosillo, Orlando Gutierrez-Boronat, and Ismare Monreal to the Institute for Freedom in the Americas Board of Directors. Carlos Diaz-Rosillo, PhD…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Dr. Alberto Tano to the Florida International University Board of Trustees

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 28, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Dr. Alberto Tano to the Florida International University Board of Trustees. Dr. Alberto Tano Dr. Tano, of Coral Gables, is the Co-Founder and Medical…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Two to the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 28, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Thomas Hobbs and Brian McElfatrick to the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority. Thomas Hobbs Hobbs is the Chief of Staff of the Port of Tampa…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes One Judicial Appointment

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 28, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announces one judicial appointment to the Third District Court of Appeal. Kansas Gooden, of Pinecrest, to serve as Judge on the Third District Court of Appeal Gooden is a…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Vetoes One Bill

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 28, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed the following bill: CS/SB 1082 Housing for Legally Verified Agricultural Workers To view the veto letter, click…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Five Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 28, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/HB 1347 – Consumer Finance Loans CS/SB 1600 – Interstate Mobility CS/SB 7040 – Ratification of the Department of Environmental…

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Governor DeSantis Announces Transportation Investments and Congestion Relief

Florida also launches a new portal to highlight and confront the federal government’s attempts to push politics into transportation AUBURNDALE, FL - On June 27, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by the Florida Department of…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Awards $1,000 Bonus Checks to All Hope Navigators Through the Hope Florida Fund and $2,500 to Six Outstanding Navigators, Totaling More Than $175,000

WINTER HAVEN, FL - On June 27, 2024, First Lady Casey DeSantis awarded $1,000 bonus checks to all Hope Navigators through the Hope Florida Fund, with $2,500 bonus checks going to six Navigators who were recognized for their outstanding performance…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Vetoes One Bill

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 27, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed the following bill: CS/SB 280 – Vacation Rentals To view the veto letter, click…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Four Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 27, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: HB 91 – Transportation Facility Designations CS/CS/HB 389 – Transportation Facility Designations CS/CS/HB 403 – Specialty License…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Christine Miller to the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 26, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Christine Miller to the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners. Christine Miller Miller is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Greater…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Three Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 26, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: HB 799 – Easements Affecting Real Property Owned by the Same Owner CS/CS/HB 1063 – Chiropractic Medicine SB 674 – United States-produced…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Vetoes Four Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 26, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed the following bills: CS/HB 133 – Professional Licensing Requirements for Barbers and Cosmetologists CS/CS/HB 473 – Cybersecurity Incident Liability CS/CS/SB 165…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Vetoes One Bill

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 25, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed the following bill: CS/CS/HB 1241 - Probation and Community Control Violations To view the veto letter, click…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Awards for Infrastructure Improvements in Central Florida Through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 25, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded funds for infrastructure improvements through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund (JGGF). Awards were made to the cities of Umatilla and Plant City for projects that will support the…

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MEMORANDUM: Executive Order 24-135 (Executive Order of Suspension)

Good afternoon, Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Executive Order 24-135 (Executive Order of Suspension), suspending Angelica Pacheco from her position as City Councilwoman of the City of Hialeah. On June 18, 2024, Angelica Pacheco was…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Two Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 25, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/HB 479 – Alternative Mobility Funding Systems and Impact Fees CS/CS/SB 1198 – Corporate Actions To view the transmittal letters, click…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Vetoes One Bill

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 25, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed the following bill: CS/SB 62 – Resident Status for Tuition Purposes To view the veto letter, click…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces State Employees Will Receive an Extra Day Off for 4th of July Weekend

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 24, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that state offices will be closed on Friday, July 5, 2024, in celebration of Independence Day weekend. “I am proud to reward our state employees,” said Governor Ron…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Three Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 24, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: HB 187 – Antisemitism HB 1109 – Security for Jewish Day Schools and Preschools CS/HB 321 – Release of Balloons To view the…

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Florida's Gross Domestic Product Growth Rate DOUBLES the National Rate Over the Last Five Years

Florida also continues to outperform the nation in private sector job growth; beats national unemployment figures for 43rd month in a row TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 21, 2024, Governor DeSantis announced that Florida’s real Gross Domestic…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Marcus Chambers to the Florida High School Athletic Association Board of Directors

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 21, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Marcus Chambers to the Florida High School Athletic Association Board of Directors. Marcus Chambers Chambers is the Superintendent of Schools for Okaloosa…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Two to the Broward College District Board of Trustees

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 21, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Michael Caschette and Eileen LaMarca to the Broward College District Board of Trustees. Michael Caschette Caschette is the Founder of and a Registered Nurse for…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Vetoes Three Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 21, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed the following bills: HB 317 – Interstate Safety CS/HB 821 – Melbourne-Tillman Water Control District, Brevard County CS/CS/SB 494 – Graduate Program Admissions…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Fourteen Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 21, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: HB 1577 – Midway Fire District, Santa Rosa County CS/HB 6007 – Relief/Julia Perez/St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office CS/HB 7019 –…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Legislation to Support Florida Veterans and Their Families

LAND O’ LAKES, FL - On June 20, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 725 and House Bill 1329 to support Florida’s veterans and their families through services for veterans shifting to civilian life, ensuring spouses can enjoy…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Two Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 20, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: HB 725 – Veterans’ Long-term Care Facilities Admissions CS/CS/HB 1329 – Veterans To view the transmittal letter, click…

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Governor DeSantis Highlights Coral Reef Conservation Efforts and Enhancements to the 2024 Lobster Mini-Season and the 2024 Lionfish Challenge

MARATHON, FL - On June 19, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted Florida’s investments in coral reef protection and announced enhancements to the 2024 Lionfish Challenge and 2024 Lobster Mini-Season. Through the FY 2024-2025 Focus on…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Four to the Valencia College District Board of Trustees

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 19, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Blair Bradley, Shawn Hindle, and Belinda Kirkegard and the reappointment of John Davis to the Valencia College District Board of Trustees. Blair Bradley Bradley…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Highlights Significant State Investments and Signs Legislation Related to Health Care and Cancer Treatment

MIAMI, FL - On June 18, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted substantial investments in both pediatric and cancer care and signed three bills furthering health care innovation, health care research, and patient care in Florida: Senate Bill 1582,…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Four Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 18, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/CS/HB 885 – Coverage for Biomarker Testing CS/CS/CS/SB 1582 – Department of Health CS/SB 7072 – Cancer Funding SB 7078 – Public…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Receives 37 Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 17, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature; CS/HB 21 – Dozier School for Boys and Okeechobee School Victim Compensation Program CS/CS/HB 23 – Public Records…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Two Judicial Appointments

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 17, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announces two judicial appointments: Chris Bufano, of Bristol, to serve as Judge on the Liberty County Court Bufano has served as a Deputy General Counsel for the Florida Department of Law…

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Updates on the State Response to Invest 90L - South Florida Flash Flooding

HOLLYWOOD, FL - On June 14, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management Executive Director Kevin Guthrie and Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Perdue in Broward County to provide updates on…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Silvia Coronado to the Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 14, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Silvia Coronado to the Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. Silvia Coronado Coronado, of Miami, is a Territory Manager for Embecta.…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 14, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Kevin Cooper as Chair, Tiffany Barfield, and Jennifer Infanti to the Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County. Kevin Cooper Cooper, of Sarasota, is the Vice…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 14, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Kae Moore as Chair, Sean Kempton, and Jamie Merchant to the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida. Kae Moore Moore is currently a full-time consultant.…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Eleven Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 14, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: HB 73 – Supported Decisionmaking Authority CS/HB 755 – Canaveral Port District, Brevard County HB 1115 – Three Rivers Stewardship District,…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Twelve Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 13, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: HB 823 – North Okaloosa Fire District, Okaloosa County HB 897 – Dorcas Fire District, Okaloosa County HB 741 – Town of Hillsboro Beach,…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Fiscal Year 2024-2025 'Focus on Florida's Future' Budget

TAMPA, FL - On June 12, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the ‘Focus on Florida’s Future’ Budget for Fiscal Year 2024-2025. The Focus on Florida’s Future Budget totals $116.5 billion—less than the previous fiscal…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Five Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 12, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: SB 2518 – Health and Human Services HB 5003 – Implementing the 2024-2025 General Appropriations Act HB 5005 – Collective Bargaining HB…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Two Judicial Appointments

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 12, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announces two judicial appointments: Robert Pickens III, of Welaka, to serve as Judge on the Seventh Judicial Circuit Court Pickens has worked as an associate at Holmes & Young, P.A.…

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MEMORANDUM: Executive Order 24-115 (Emergency Management - Invest 90L - South Florida Flash Flooding)

TO: Members of the Press FROM: Bryan Griffin, Director of Communications, Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Wednesday, June 12, 2024 RE: Executive Order 24-115 (Emergency Management - Invest 90L - South Florida Flash Flooding) Following the…

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MEMORANDUM: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Pulse Remembrance Day

TO: Brian Fienemann, Director of Real Estate Development and Management FROM: Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Tuesday, June 11, 2024 RE: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Pulse Remembrance Day Eight years ago, on June 12, 2016, a shooter claiming…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Commits Record Increases to Teacher Pay

HIALEAH, FL - On June 10, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced his commitment to approving a historic teacher salary funding increase of $1.25 billion in the budget for Fiscal Year 2024–25. Since 2019, Florida has invested over $4 billion in…

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State of Florida Signs MOU with South Korean Research Agency to Promote Information Sharing on Harmful Algal Blooms

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 7, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with South Korea’s National Institute of Environmental Research to…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Toll Relief Program Savings of $42 Million in Its First Month

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 7, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida’s Toll Relief Program, which was announced in April for the second consecutive year, has distributed the first month of toll relief for Florida’s commuters.…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Seven to the Florida Council on Arts and Culture

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 7, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Ashley Gibson Barnett, Lauren Sarah Carpenter, Sofia Diaz, and Beverly Frank and the reappointment of Lisa Burgess, Carroll Hanley Goggin, and Frank Gromling to…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Selects Three Inductees to the Florida Women's Hall of Fame

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 7, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the selection of Graci McGillicuddy, May Mann Jennings, and Penny Thompson to the Florida Women’s Hall of Fame. Each year, the Governor selects three nominees from…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Vetoes One Bill

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 7, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed the following bill: CS/SB 1698 – Food and Hemp Products To view the transmittal letter, click…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Receives 25 Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 7, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until June 22, 2024, to act on these bills. CS/HB 755 – Canaveral Port District, Brevard County HB 823…

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Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez Highlights Water Safety for Floridians

ORMOND BEACH, FL - On June 5, 2024, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez, Secretary of the Department of Children and Families (DCF) Shevaun Harris, State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo, and Agency for Persons with Disabilities Director…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Unveils Hope Florida Resources for Law Enforcement

Florida law enforcement will be able to offer help and hope to Floridians through Hope Florida. TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 5, 2024, First Lady Casey DeSantis hosted a meeting with over 100 sheriffs, police chiefs, and other law enforcement…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs One Bill

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 5, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bill: CS/CS/HB 385 – Safe Exchange of Minor Children To view the transmittal letter, click…

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Governor DeSantis Encourages Residents to Take Advantage of Disaster Preparation Sales Tax Holiday

Governor also awards $7.5 million to continue Hurricane Ian recovery TALLAHASSEE, FL - Concurrent to the start of the 2024 hurricane season, Governor Ron DeSantis today urged residents to take advantage of the 14-day sales tax holiday for…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Five to the Hardee County Housing Authority

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 31, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Lemercier Alfred, Lesley Bateman, Ralene Graham, Leslie Long, and Dawn Stark to the Hardee County Housing Authority. Lemercier Alfred Alfred, of Wauchula, is…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Two to the Jacksonville Port Authority

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 31, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of Daniel Bean and the appointment of Patrick Kilbane to the Jacksonville Port Authority. Daniel Bean Bean is a Partner at Abel Bean Law, P.A. A veteran of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Two to the Children's Services Council of Leon County

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 31, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Simone Marstiller and Brent Johnson to the Children’s Services Council of Leon County. Simone Marstiller Marstiller is Of Counsel at Gunster, Yoakley,…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Eight Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 31, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/CS/HB 1203 – Homeowners’ Associations CS/HB 1259 – Providers of Cardiovascular Services CS/CS/HB 1363 – Traffic Enforcement HB…

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Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nunez Announces Registration is Open for the 2024 Florida Python Challenge

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FL - On May 30, 2024, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez announced that registration for the 2024 Florida Python Challenge® is now open. Participants this year will have the chance to win a share of more than $25,000 in…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Receives 10 Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 30, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until June 14, 2024, to act on these bills. CS/HB 923 – Wills and Estates HB 521 – Equitable…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Nine Bills - May 29, 2024

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 29, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/HB 775 – Surrendered Infants CS/HB 855 – Dental Services CS/CS/HB 1049 – Flood Disclosure in the Sale of Real Property CS/HB 1093…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Nine Bills - May 28, 2024

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 28, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: HB 59 – Provision of Homeowners’ Association Rules and Covenants CS/HB 141 – Economic Development CS/CS/CS/HB 149 – Continuing…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Two to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 22, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Stephanie Kopelousos and Joe Nunziata to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. Stephanie Kopelousos Kopelousos is the District Administrator of the Central…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Gainesville-Alachua County Regional Airport Authority

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 22, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Brian Crawford, Wesley Maul, and Staci Sims to the Gainesville-Alachua County Regional Airport Authority. Brian Crawford Crawford, of Gainesville, is the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Three Judicial Nominating Commission Appointments

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 21, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announces the following appointments to Florida’s Judicial Nominating Commissions: Sixth District Court of Appeal Judicial Nominating Commission Tara Tedrow, of Windermere, is a…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Receives 27 Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 21, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until June 5, 2024, to act on these bills. CS/HB 141 – Economic Development CS/CS/HB 1363 – Traffic…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Ten Bill

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On Friday, May 17, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/HB 1305 – Residential Tenancies CS/HB 415 – Pregnancy and Parenting Resources Website CS/CS/CS/HB 275 – Offenses Involving…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Record Breaking Tourism Numbers

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 16, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that tourism to Florida has reached unprecedented levels, solidifying Florida’s status as the premier destination for travelers worldwide. Revised figures for 2023 show that…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Lisa Yeager to the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 16,2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Lisa Yeager to the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners. Lisa Yeager Yeager is the Owner and Partner of Boating Enterprises of Florida, LLC. Previously, she…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Eight to the Lower Florida Keys Hospital District

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 16, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Mary Chambers, Stephen Hammond, James “Doc” Muir, Kathryn Ovide, Mary Spottswood, Erica Sterling, Lesley Thompson, and Richard Toppino to the Lower…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Dr. Samuel Giles to the Alzheimer's Disease Advisory Committee

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 16, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Dr. Samuel Giles to the Alzheimer’s Disease Advisory Committee. Dr. Samuel Giles Dr. Giles, of St. Johns, is the Co-Founder, Medical Director, and a…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Five to the Gainesville Regional Utilities Authority

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 16, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Edward Bielarski, Craig Carter, Eric Lawson, David Haslam, and Robert “Chip” Skinner to the Gainesville Regional Utilities Authority. Edward…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Eleven Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 16, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/CS/CS/HB 267 – Building Regulations HB 5401 – Judges CS/CS/HB 1567 – Qualifications for County Emergency Management Directors CS/CS/HB…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Three Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 15, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/CS/HB 1645 – Energy Resources CS/CS/HB 1331 – Commodities Produced by Forced Labor HB 7071 – Foreign Investments by the State Board of…

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MEMORANDUM: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day

TO: Brian Fienemann, Director of Real Estate Development and Management FROM: Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 RE: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day Peace Officers Memorial Day honors the lives of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards $2.3 Million to Florida's Military Communities

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 13, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the award of $2.3 million through the Defense Infrastructure Grant Program. These awards will bolster Florida’s military communities by supporting infrastructure projects and…

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MEMORANDUM: Executive Order 24-95 (Amending Executive Order 24-94, Emergency Management - May North Florida Tornadoes)

TO: Members of the Press FROM: Bryan Griffin, Director of Communications, Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Monday, May 13, 2024 RE: Executive Order 24-95 (Amending Executive Order 24-94, Emergency Management - May North Florida Tornadoes)…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs One Bill

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 13, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bill: HB 7063 – Anti-human Trafficking To view the transmittal letter, click…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Additional Actions to Combat Human Trafficking and Support Survivors

CORAL GABLES, FL - On May 13, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced additional actions in Florida to stop human trafficking. The governor will approve $4.9 million in the 2024–2025 budget to expand access to emergency beds for victims of human…

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The Office of Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Recovery Efforts Following Severe Weather in North Florida

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Governor Ron DeSantis issued EO 24-94 which designates 12 counties to be under a state of emergency in order to maximize state resources and cooperative efforts to assist in recovery following severe weather on May 10th, 2024, that…

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Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis Highlight the Success of Hope Florida and Present Awards to Hope Florida Partners

Hope Florida has helped nearly 30,000 transition off of government assistance and is consequentially estimated to save Florida taxpayers nearly $800 million dollars over the next 10 years. PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL - On May 9, 2024, Governor Ron…

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Governor DeSantis Ensures Order on Florida's University and College Campuses

GAINESVILLE, FL – On May 8, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis touted Florida’s success in maintaining order and ensuring student safety on Florida’s campuses. In Florida, pro-Hamas encampments were disbanded in minutes, and Jewish…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints M. Carson Good to the Board of Governors of the State University System

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 8, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of M. Carson Good to the Board of Governors of the State University System. Carson Good Good, of Winter Park, is the President of Good Capital Group. Active in his…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Paul Applegarth to the Florida Gulf Coast University Board of Trustees

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 8, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Paul Applegarth to the Florida Gulf Coast University Board of Trustees. Paul Applegarth Applegarth is the Chief Executive Officer of Value Enhancement…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Nathan Hoffman to the Florida Scholars Academy Board of Trustees

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 8, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Nathan Hoffman to the Florida Scholars Academy Board of Trustees. Nathan Hoffman Hoffman is the Senior Director of State Policy and Advocacy at the Foundation…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes One Judicial Appointment

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 8, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announces one judicial appointment to the Polk County Court. Rachelle Williamson, of Winter Haven, to serve as Judge on the Polk County Court Williamson has served as an Assistant State…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Brings More Tax Relief for Florida's Families

Since 2019, the Governor has secured nearly $6.7 billion in tax cuts. CAPE CANAVERAL, FL – On May 7, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 7073, providing $1.07 billion in tax relief for Floridians this year, in addition to the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs One Bill

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 7, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bill: CS/HB 7073 – Taxation To view the transmittal letters, click…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Receives 20 Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 7, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until May 22, 2024, to act on these bills. CS/HB 1305 - Residential Tenancies CS/CS/CS/HB 267 - Building…

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Florida Remains the #1 Destination for Domestic Tourism

Florida also ranks #2 for international tourism. TALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 6, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that VISIT FLORIDA data shows that Florida has maintained its position as the #1 domestic tourist destination in the United States…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs 16 Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL – On May 6, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/CS/HB 1473 - School Safety CS/CS/HB 1509 - Public Records CS/CS/HB 285 - Public Records CS/CS/HB 1077 - Clerks of Court CS/HB…

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Memorandum: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day

To: Brian Fienemann, Director of Real Estate Management and Development From: Governor Ron DeSantis Date: Friday, May 3, 2024 RE: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day Each year, we honor…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Chase Christianson to the Early Learning Coalition of Northwest Florida

TALLAHSSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Chase Christianson as Chair of the Early Learning Coalition of Northwest Florida. Chase Christianson Christianson is the Chief Executive Officer of HCA Florida Gulf Coast…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints Moshe Popack to the Florida Development Finance Corporation

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of Moshe Popack to the Florida Development Finance Corporation. Moshe Popack Popack, of Miami Beach, is the Owner of YMP Real Estate Management, LLC and the Co-Founder of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Five to the Florida Commission on Community Service

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Ivan Chavez, Kristen “Rhea” Goff, and Heather Turnbull and the reappointment of John Davis and Sherry Wheelock to the Florida Commission on Community…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Silvia Castellanos to the Children's Trust Governing Board of Miami-Dade County

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Silvia Castellanos to the Children’s Trust Governing Board of Miami-Dade County. Silvia Castellanos Castellanos, of Miami, is the Director of External Affairs for…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints Three to the Florida Children and Youth Cabinet

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of Jason Barrett, Jessica Costello, and Carlos de la Cruz Jr. to the Florida Children and Youth Cabinet. Jason Barrett Barrett is the Chief Executive Officer of Northwest…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Nina Ward as Bay County Supervisor of Elections

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Nina Ward as Bay County Supervisor of Elections. This appointment is effective June 8, 2024. Nina Ward Ward, of Panama City, is the Deputy Supervisor of Elections for Bay…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Legislation to Strengthen Florida’s Protections Against the Agenda of the Global Elite

JACKSONVILLE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation to further strengthen Florida’s protections for consumers, teachers, and employees from being forced to adopt ideologies or reflect a preferred political behavior. With…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Three Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/CS/CS/HB 989 – Chief Financial Officer CS/HB 1291 – Educator Preparation Programs CS/CS/HB 939 – Consumer Protection To view the transmittal letter,…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Legislation to Keep Lab-Grown Meat Out of Florida

HARDEE COUNTY, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed SB 1084 to prohibit the sale of lab-grown meat in the state of Florida. Florida is taking action to stop the World Economic Forum’s goal of forcing the world to eat lab-grown meat and…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Two Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/CS/SB 1084 – Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services SB 7026 – Public Records To view the transmittal letter, click…

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Governor DeSantis Announces Freedom Summer Savings

The Governor announced he would sign the Freedom Month Sales Tax Holiday and all Florida State Parks will be free to enter during Memorial Day Weekend TAMPA, FL -Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that he would be signing the Freedom Summer…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Receives Six Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until May 15, 2024, to act on these bills. HB 7071 – Foreign Investments by the State Board of Administration CS/CS/HB…

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Governor DeSantis Announces 103-Day Gulf Red Snapper Recreational Season for 2024

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the record 103-day 2024 Gulf Red Snapper recreational season, the longest season since the state was delegated management of Gulf red snapper. This season will include both a summer and fall…

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Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis Recognize Florida's Heroes During the Second Annual Florida Heroes' Reception

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis welcomed heroes from across the state of Florida to the Florida Governor’s Residence to recognize them for their contributions to others and for exhibiting…

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Governor DeSantis Announces Record Investments in Services for Develop Mental Disabilities and Funding for The Els Center of Excellence

JUPITER, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the highest level of funding for direct services for people with unique abilities in Florida’s history with more than $2.2 billion going to the Agency for Persons with Disabilities for…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Highlights Investments to Strengthen Florida's Commitment to Conserving our Natural Resources

The Governor also awards of $60 Million for Alternative Water Supply Projects TALLAHASSEE, FL - This week, Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted investments to continue to strengthen Florida’s natural resources, announcing his commitment to…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Twenty Eight Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/CS/CS/HB 613 - Mobile Home Park Lot Tenancies CS/CS/HB 1171 - Schemes to Defraud CS/CS/HB 1181 - Juvenile Justice CS/CS/HB 1389 - Digital Voyeurism CS/CS/HB 159 -…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes One Judicial Appointment

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announces one judicial appointment to the Fifth Judicial Circuit Court. Charles Helm, of Floral City, to serve as Judge on the Fifth Judicial Circuit Court Helm has served as a County Court Judge…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Receives Twenty Eight Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until May 10, 2024, to act on these bills. CS/CS/HB 939 - Consumer Protection CS/CS/CS/HB 1065 - Substance Abuse Treatment …

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Historic Investments in Florida's Water Quality and Manatee Rescue Projects Leads to Another Successful Release of a Manatee in Three Sisters Springs

First Lady Casey DeSantis and Mamie DeSantis helped send the Manatee “Toast” back into the spring. CRYSTAL RIVER, FL - Today, First Lady Casey DeSantis joined the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and SeaWorld at…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Highlights Investments in Strengthening and Fortifying Florida

REDINGTON SHORES, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted Florida’s investments to strengthen the state’s defenses against hurricanes through infrastructure improvements, beach fortification and support for homeowners. The…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Successful Rescue of More Than 700 Total Americans from Haiti

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that the State of Florida has successfully rescued 722 Americans from Haiti. The Florida Division of Emergency Management (the Division) began rescue operations at the direction of Governor…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Three Bills

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/CS/CS/HB 1029 – My Safe Florida Condominium Pilot Program CS/SB 7028 – My Safe Florida Home Program CS/CS/SB 988 – Public Records To view the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Highlights Funding for Land Conservation and Red Tide Mitigation

Significant Investments in the Florida Wildlife Corridor to Protect the Florida Panther NAPLES, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted $100 million in funding for the Florida Wildlife Corridor as appropriated in Senate Bill (SB) 1638, which…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs One Bill

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bill: CS/CS/HB 1565 – Florida Red Tide Mitigation and Technology Development Initiative To view the transmittal letter, click…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces $1.5 Billion for Everglades Restoration and Water Quality Improvements in Fiscal Year 2024–25

West Palm Beach, FL - On April 22, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced his commitment to approving $1.5 billion included in the Fiscal Year 2024 - 25 budget passed by the Legislature to support Everglades restoration and water quality…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Receives Twenty Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until May 7, 2024, to act on these bills. HB 7067 – Pretrial Detention Hearings CS/CS/HB 1565 – Florida Red…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Frederick 'Rick' Pullum to the Central Florida Expressway Authority

Tallahassee, FL - On April 19, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Frederick “Rick” Pullum to the Central Florida Expressway Authority. Frederick “Rick” Pullum Pullum is the President of One Florida…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Gary Price to the Florida Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Board of Directors

Tallahassee, FL - On April 19, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Gary Price to the Florida Achieve a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Board of Directors. Gary Price Price, of Naples, is the Owner and Partner of Fifth Avenue…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the South Florida State College District Board of Trustees

Tallahassee, FL - On April 19, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Devon Donaldson and John Eason and the reappointment of Terry Atchley to the South Florida State College District Board of Trustees. Devon Donaldson Donaldson…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints Four to the Biomedical Research Advisory Council

Tallahassee, FL - On April 19, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of Stephen Black, Nicole de Lara Puente, Dr. Shaye Moskowitz, and Dr. Akram Shibani to the Biomedical Research Advisory Council. Stephen Black, PhD Black, of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis DeSantis Appoints Gregory Holcomb to the Emergency Communications Board

Tallahassee, FL - On April 19, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Gregory Holcomb to the Emergency Communications Board. Gregory Holcomb Holcomb, of Orlando, is the Director of the Office of Public Safety Support and a 911…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Legislation to Provide Additional Resources to Students

Kissimmee, FL - On April 18, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation to enable schools to host chaplain programs and patriotic organizations on campus. “Faith leaders and civic organizations are important additional resources for…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Unveils First-in-the-Nation Opportunity for Parents and Grandparents to Support Students in the Classroom

Lynn Haven, FL - On April 18, 2024, First Lady Casey DeSantis unveiled new Resiliency Florida resources to support students and parents to build resiliency at school and home. The First Lady also announced a first-in-the-nation opportunity for…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Two Bills

Tallahassee, FL - On April 18, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: HB 931 - School Chaplains CS/HB 1317 - Patriotic Organizations To view the transmittal letter, click…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Legislation Further Enhancing Florida's Education Standards on the Evils of Communism

Hialeah Gardens, FL - On April 17, 2024, on the 63rd anniversary of the Bay of Pigs invasion, Governor Ron DeSantis signed SB 1264, which strengthens Florida’s education standards that require teaching on the dangers and evils of Communism. …

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Two Judicial Appointments

Tallahassee, FL - On April 17, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announces two judicial appointments, one to the Walton County Court and one to the Alachua County Court. Kelvin Wells, of DeFuniak Springs, to serve as Judge on the Walton County Court …

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs One Bill

Tallahassee, FL - On April 17, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bill: CS/CS/SB 1264 – History of Communism To view the transmittal letter, click…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Legislation to Further Enhance Education in Florida

Jacksonville, FL - On April 16, 2204, Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 1285, which builds on Florida’s nation-leading education opportunities by providing high school students the ability to explore military service, empowering students to work…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs One Bill

Tallahassee, FL - On April 16, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bill: CS/CS/HB 1285 – Education To view the transmittal letters, click…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Receives Twenty Nine Bills from the Florida Legislature

Tallahassee, FL - On April 16, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until May 1, 2024, to act on these bills. CS/HB 1281 - Interception and Disclosure of Oral Communications …

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Governor DeSantis Champions Legislation to Further Enhance Florida Education

Pensacola, FL - On April 15, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted parts of HB 1285, a bill that further enhances Florida’s top-ranked education system. April 15, 2024's highlights from the bill included simplifying the process to convert…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Receives One Bill from the Florida Legislature

Tallahassee, FL - On April 15, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bill from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until April 30, 2024, to act on these bills. CS/CS/HB 1285 –…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Fourteen Bills

Tallahassee, FL - On April 15, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: HB 113 - Tax Collections and Sales CS/HB 151 - Florida Retirement System HB 353 - Alternative Headquarters for District Court Judg CS/CS/HB 537 - Student…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Legislation to Protect Florida’s Law Enforcement Officers

AUGUSTINE, Fla.—On April 12, Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation to increase penalties for those who harass officers in the course of their duty and legislation to prohibit localities from using political entities like Civilian Oversight…

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MILESTONE: Nearly 5,000 Bonuses of $5,000 Awarded to New Law Enforcement Recruits

Including 400 Law Enforcement Officers Recruited from Illinois, California, and New York ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla.— On April 12, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida has reached the milestone of nearly 5,000 bonuses awarded through the…

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To Benefit the Hope Florida Fund, First Lady Casey DeSantis Asks Floridians for Kid-Friendly Recipes

Submissions will be used to support Hope Florida – A Pathway to Prosperity TALLAHASSEE, Fla.— On April 12, First Lady Casey DeSantis announced a new website to collect family-oriented, kid-friendly recipes for a project designed to…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints James Satcher as Manatee County Supervisor of Elections

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—On April 12, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of James Satcher as Manatee County Supervisor of Elections. James Satcher Satcher, of Ellenton, is a Minister and a Manatee County Commissioner, representing…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Four to the Town of McIntosh Council

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—On April 12, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Eva Callahan, William “Lee” Deaderick, Donald Medeiros, and Richard Talbert to the Town of McIntosh Council. Eva Callahan Callahan is retired…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Pasco-Hernando State College District Board of Trustees

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—On April 12, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of John Allocco Jr., Ryan Brady, and Gino Collura to the Pasco-Hernando State College District Board of Trustees. John Allocco Jr. Allocco, of Weeki Wachee,…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Two to the Board of Optometry

Tallahassee, FL – On April 12, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Dr. Bryan Stam and the reappointment of Dr. Denise Burns-LeGros to the Board of Optometry. Dr. Bryan Stam Dr. Stam, of Ponte Vedra Beach, is an…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Two Bills

Tallahassee, FL - On April 12, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: HB 601 – Law Enforcement and Correctional Officers SB 184 – Impeding, Threatening, or Harassing First Responders To view the transmittal…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Five Pieces of Legislation to Protect Children from Predatory Grooming and Other Sexual Offenses

PETERSBURG, Fl - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed five pieces of legislation to enhance and create additional criminal punishments for abusing children through grooming or other sexual offenses. These bills provide law enforcement with more tools…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Five Bills and Receives Two Bills From the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, Fl - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: HB 1131 – Online Sting Operations Grant Program CS/CS/HB 1235 – Sexual Predators and Sexual Offenders CS/HB 305 – Offenses Involving Children CS/HB…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Legislation to Eliminate Retail Theft and Porch Piracy

STUART, Fl - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 549, which increases penalties for retail theft, porch piracy, and inciting looting via social media. Retail theft is rampant in blue jurisdictions and a growing problem throughout the country…

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ICYMI: First Lady Casey DeSantis Awards $40,000 from The Hope Florida Fund to Law Enforcement Nonprofits Serving in Seminole County

Sanford, Fl - This week, First Lady Casey DeSantis joined officers from the Sanford Police Department for a law enforcement de-escalation training at Decision Tactical’s facility. The First Lady also met with families of fallen officers and…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Strongest Anti-Illegal Immigration Legislation in the Country to Combat Biden's Border Crisis

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 1718 to combat the dangerous effects of illegal immigration caused by the federal government’s reckless border policies. This legislation makes using E-Verify mandatory…

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Governor DeSantis Signs One Bill

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bill: CS/CS/SB 1718 – Immigration To view the transmittal letter, click…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Approves Record Increase in Teacher Pay and Signs the Nation's Most Comprehensive Package of Legislation to Support Teachers

MIAMI — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a landmark package of legislation to support and empower Florida’s teachers, reign in out-of-control unions and school boards, get TikTok out of schools, and protect the integrity of the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces More Than 2,000 Bonuses Awarded to New Law Enforcement Recruits

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida reached a key milestone, awarding more than 2,000 bonuses through the Florida Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Program. This program is designed to encourage Floridians…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Five Bills

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/CS/SB 256 – Employee Organizations Representing Public Employees CS/HB 1035 – K-12 Teachers CS/CS/CS/HB 1537 – Education HB 477 –…

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Governor DeSantis Receives Forty-One Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until May 24, 2023, to act on these bills. CS/CS HB 1387 – Department of Health CS/HB 1597 – Florida…

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Governor DeSantis Receives Three Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. CS/CS/SB 258 – Prohibited Applications on Government-Issued Devices CS/CS/SB 264 – Interests of Foreign Countries…

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Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of the Victims of the Tragedy in Allen, Texas

TO: Tom Berger, Director of Real Estate Development and Management FROM: Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Monday, May 8, 2023 RE: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of the Victims of the Tragedy in Allen, Texas As a mark of respect for the victims of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Cracks Down on Communist China

BROOKSVILLE, Fla. — Today, Governor DeSantis signed three bills to counteract the malign influence of the Chinese Communist Party in the state of Florida. Last year, Governor DeSantis called on the Legislature to build upon the efforts he led…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Three Bills

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/CS/SB 258 – Prohibited Applications on Government-Issued Devices CS/CS/SB 264 – Interests of Foreign Countries CS/CS/SB 846 – Agreements of…

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Governor DeSantis Receives Five Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. CS/HB 1035 – K-12 Teachers CS/CS/SB 256 – Employee Organizations Representing Public Employees CS/CS/CS/HB 1537…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes One Judicial Appointment

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announces one judicial appointment to the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit Court. Anastasia Norman, of Port Saint Lucie, to serve as Judge on the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit Court Norman has…

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Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day

TO: Tom Berger, Director of Real Estate Development and Management FROM: Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Saturday, May 6, 2023 RE: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day Each year, we honor the fallen…

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Governor DeSantis Receives One Bill from the Florida Legislature - May 5, 2023

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bill from the Florida Legislature. CS/CS/SB 1604 – Land Use and Development Regulations The Governor has until May 20, 2023, to act on this…

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Governor DeSantis Signs One Bill

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bill: CS/CS/SB 1604 – Land Use and Development Regulations Click here to view the transmittal…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Celebrates Historic Success During the 2023 Legislative Session

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis, joined by Senate President Kathleen Passidomo and House Speaker Paul Renner, marked the end of the 2023 Legislative Session. This Session was a historic success, with the Legislature passing…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Record 70-Day 2023 Gulf Red Snapper Recreational Season

PANAMA CITY, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the 2023 Gulf red snapper recreational season which will total 70 days, the longest combined season since the state assumed management of red snapper. The season includes both a 46-day…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Celebrates the 72nd Annual National Day of Prayer

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis recognized the 72nd consecutive annual National Day of Prayer. This day is an opportunity to reflect on the many blessings bestowed on the state of Florida and on America. To read the National…

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Governor DeSantis Receives Two Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature: CS/CS/SB 1550 – Prescription Drugs CS/SB 1552 – Public Records The Governor has until May 10, 2023, to act on these…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Most Comprehensive Legislation in Florida History to Increase Accountability and Transparency for Prescription Drug Costs

JUPITER, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law the most comprehensive reforms to Florida’s prescription drug market in state history. The Prescription Drug Reform Act codifies the Governor’s actions from last year to…

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Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis' Trade and Cultural Mission Trip Successfully Elevates Florida's Ties with Japan, South Korea, Israel, and the United Kingdom

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Last week, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis led a delegation of state leaders and Florida businesses to Japan, South Korea, Israel, and the United Kingdom on an international trade and cultural mission…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Two Judicial Appointments

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announces two judicial appointments to the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court. Elizabeth Gibson, of Orlando, to serve as Judge on the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court Gibson has served as a Judge on…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Two Bills

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/CS/SB 1550 – Prescription Drugs CS/SB 1552 – Public Records Click here to view the transmittal…

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Governor DeSantis Receives One Bill from the Florida Legislature - May 2, 2023

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bill from the Florida Legislature. CS/CS/HB 3 – Government and Corporate Activism The Governor has until May 9, 2023, to act on this…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Legislation to Protect Floridians' Financial Future and Economic Liberty

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed comprehensive legislation to protect Floridians from the corporatist environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) movement — a worldwide effort to inject woke political…

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Governor DeSantis Signs One Bill

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bill: CS/CS/HB 3 – Government and Corporate Activism Click here to view the transmittal…

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Governor DeSantis Receives Three Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until May 8, 2023, to act on these bills. CS/CS/HB 1297 – Capital Sexual Battery CS/CS/HB 1359 –…

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Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis Award $1.5 Million to Accelerate Flood Recovery Efforts in Southeast Florida

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced $1.5 million in grant awards through the Florida Disaster Fund to support the efforts of non-profit and faith-based organizations engaged in flood recovery efforts in Southeast…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Third Consecutive Anti-Crime, Pro-Public Safety Legislative Package

TITUSVILLE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law his third consecutive anti-crime, pro-public safety legislative package. The bills enacted by the Governor strengthen pre-trial detention and push back against “bail…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Four Bills

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.— Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/CS/HB 269 – Public Nuisances CS/CS/HB 1297 – Capital Sexual Battery CS/CS/HB 1359 – Offenses Involving Fentanyl or Fentanyl Analogs…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Meets with United Kingdom Secretary of State for Business and Trade Kemi Badenoch

LONDON, UK – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis met with Member of Parliament (MP) Kemi Badenoch, who is currently serving as the Secretary of State for Business and Trade and as the President of the Board of Trade in the United Kingdom. The…

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Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of County Commissioner Nancy Detert

RE: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of County Commissioner Nancy Detert On Wednesday, April 5, 2023, County Commissioner Nancy Detert passed away at the age of 78. Detert had a long career in public service, serving in several capacities over a span…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Meets with Reinsurance Companies in London

LONDON, UK – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Citizens Property Insurance Corporation President and CEO Tim Cerio for a discussion with reinsurance companies in the United Kingdom. In the meeting, Governor DeSantis provided an update…

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Governor DeSantis Announces Award of $100 Million to Impacted Coastal Communities Through Hurricane Stormwater and Wastewater Assistance Grant Program

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Gov. Ron DeSantis and Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Shawn Hamilton announced the award of $100 million in funding for local governments that operate a stormwater or wastewater…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Enhanced Anti-Antisemitism and Anti-BDS Legislation in Israel

JERUSALEM, Israel – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis visited Israel as part of his international trade mission where he signed House Bill 269 to provide law enforcement agencies with new enforcement mechanisms to punish perpetrators of antisemitic…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Meets with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu

JERUSALEM, Israel– While on a historic trade mission, Governor Ron DeSantis met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Florida continues to have a strong relationship with Israel, both economically and culturally. Florida and…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Partnership Expansions with Innovative Health Care Company Insightec to Bring State-of-the-Art Cancer Treatment to Florida

JERUSALEM, Israel – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that innovative health care company Insightec will be expanding the Florida Brain State Program and providing access to a state-of-the-art brain technology already placed across…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Meets with Foreign Minister James Cleverly of the United Kingdom

LONDON, UK – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis met with Foreign Minister James Cleverly to discuss Florida’s business relationship with the United Kingdom and mutual interests between the government of the United Kingdom and Florida. The…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Gives Remarks to Business Leaders in South Korea

SEOUL, South Korea – Governor Ron DeSantis met with business executives and delivered remarks on Florida’s economic partnership with South Korea while visiting on an international trade mission. South Korea is the Governor’s second…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs MOU with LowCarbon Hydrogen Corporation in South Korea, Company Set to Break Ground on Clean Hydrogen Facility in Florida

SEOUL, South Korea — Governor Ron DeSantis today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with South Korea-based LowCarbon Hydrogen Corporation to create a research hub for clean hydrogen technology in Florida. The company plans to develop a…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Meets with South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-Soo to Highlight the Business Relationship Between Florida and South Korea

SEOUL, South Korea – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis met with Prime Minister Han Duck-Soo of South Korea to highlight the growing business relationship between Florida and South Korea. The Governor and First Lady were joined by Florida Secretary…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Meets with Gyeonggi Province Governor Kim ****-yeon and Strengthens Florida's Commercial Ties with South Korea

SEOUL, South Korea – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis met with Gyeonggi Province Governor Kim ****-yeon to demonstrate Florida’s position as a strong leader in economic development and trade and reaffirm a sister state agreement between…

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Governor Ron DeSantis and Florida Delegation Meet with Executives from Hyundai Motor Group and Kia Global

SEOUL, South Korea – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis, joined by Florida Secretary of Commerce Laura DiBella and Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd, met with Karl Kim, President of Hyundai Motor Group, and Hosung Song, President and CEO of Kia…

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In Case You Missed It: Governor Ron DeSantis Continues International Trade Mission in South Korea

SEOUL, South Korea — Governor Ron DeSantis visited South Korea for his second stop during Florida’s trade mission. Governor DeSantis’ visit included meetings with South Korean leaders Prime Minister Han Duck-soo and Gyeonggi…

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State of Florida, Israel Innovation Authority, and Israel-American Chamber of Commerce Sign Joint Declaration

JERUSALEM, Israel – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis joined Enterprise Florida, Inc. (EFI), the Israel Innovation Authority, and the Israel-America Chamber of Commerce (AmCham Israel) as they signed a joint declaration to promote greater…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Florida, Israel Aerospace Agreement

JERUSALEM, Israel – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced an agreement between Avenger Flight Group, LLC. (AFG), a Fort Lauderdale-based company, and EL AL Israel Airlines. At the Governor’s press conference in Israel, CEO and Founder…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Meets with Japanese Airline Industry Leaders to Discuss Future Direct Flights

TOKYO, Japan — Governor Ron DeSantis met with executives from All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines to discuss new direct flight opportunities between Florida and Japan. The Governor was joined by Florida Secretary of Commerce Laura DiBella…

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Governor Ron DeSantis and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency Discuss Partnership Opportunities

TOKYO, Japan — Governor Ron DeSantis met with members of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) to discuss Japan and Florida’s space and aerospace ecosystems, creating an alliance that will enhance Florida’s place in the…

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Governor DeSantis Receives One Bill from the Florida Legislature - April 26, 2023

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bill from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until May 3, 2023, to act on this bill. CS/CS/HB 269 – Public…

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In Case You Missed It: Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis Begin International Trade Mission in Japan

TOKYO, Japan – Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis, joined by Florida Secretary of Commerce Laura DiBella and Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd, began an international trade mission in Japan. While there, the delegation met…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Meets with Leaders from JETRO

TOKYO, Japan — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis met with leaders from the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). The purpose of the meeting was to celebrate the strong relationship between Florida and JETRO and to discuss partnership…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Celebrates Successful Meetings with KEIDANREN Business Executives in Japan

TOKYO, Japan – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis met with business executives from the Japanese business leaders from KEIDANREN (Japan Business Federation) for a celebratory lunch following successful meetings in Japan. The Governor is visiting…

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ICYMI: Governor Ron DeSantis Interviewed by Japanese News Outlet Nikkei Asia

TOKYO, Japan — Governor Ron DeSantis was interviewed by Japanese news outlet Nikkei Asia while visiting Japan on an international trade mission. While in Japan, the Governor met with key business executives and government leaders to…

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Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis Meet with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan

TOKYO, Japan. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis met with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan. The Governor and First Lady discussed business mutual interests and the trade relationship between Florida and Japan.…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Holds Roundtable with Japanese Business Leaders to Kick Off International Business Development Mission

TOKYO, Japan — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis, along with Florida Secretary of Commerce Laura DiBella, Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd, and Enterprise Florida Vice Board Chair Freddie Figgers, led a roundtable discussion with Japanese…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Meets with Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi to Discuss Business Relationship Between Japan and Florida

TOKYO, Japan. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis met with Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi of Japan to discuss the growing business relationship between Japan and Florida. The Governor was joined by First Lady Casey DeSantis, Florida Secretary…

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Governor DeSantis Receives One Bill from the Florida Legislature - April 20, 2023

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bill from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until April 27, 2023, to act on this bill. CS/CS/SB 450 – Death…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Bill to Ensure Justice in Capital Cases

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by parents of the victims of the Parkland mass murder to sign Senate Bill (SB) 450, which reforms Florida’s death penalty statutes including reducing the number of jurors needed…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces International Trade Mission

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that he will lead an international trade mission, organized in conjunction with Enterprise Florida, to Japan, South Korea, Israel and the United Kingdom. The mission will build on…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Activates the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, Making $5 Million Available for Businesses Impacted by Flooding in Southeast Florida

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making $5 million available for businesses impacted by flooding in Southeast Florida. Businesses in Broward County, including…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Award of More Than $13.6 Million for Innovative Technologies to Clean Up and Mitigate Harmful Algal Blooms

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the award of more than $13.6 million for innovative technologies and short-term solutions to aid in the prevention, cleanup and mitigation of harmful algal blooms. A list of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Legislative Action to Rebuke Disney's Last-Ditch Attempt to Defy the Legislature and the State of Florida

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and members of the Legislature to announce legislative and Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD) Board actions to nullify…

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ICYMI: Florida Division of Emergency Management Issues Updates on Southeast Florida Flooding

Widespread showers and thunderstorms overnight produced significant rainfall totals as a nearly stationary front over southeast Florida caused significant flooding. While Broward County has not requested assistance from the state, the Florida…

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MEMORANDUM: Executive Order 23-65 (Emergency Management – Broward County Flooding)

TO: Members of the Press FROM: Taryn Fenske, Director of Communications, Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Thursday, April 13, 2023 RE: Executive Order 23-65 (Emergency Management – Broward County Flooding) Good Afternoon, Today, Governor…

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ICYMI: Florida Division of Emergency Management Issues Updates on Southeast Florida Flooding - 4/13 Afternoon

In response to significant flooding in southeast Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis has issued Executive Order 23-65 declaring a State of Emergency in Broward County. The State Emergency Operations Center remains activated at a Level 2 in response to…

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Governor DeSantis Receives Two Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until April 20, 2023, to act on these bills. SB 300 – Pregnancy and Parenting Support CS/SB 360 –…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Heartbeat Protection Act

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed SB 300, the Heartbeat Protection Act, which prohibits abortions once the unborn child has a detectible heartbeat. “We are proud to support life and family in the state of…

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Governor DeSantis Receives One Bill from the Florida Legislature - April 11, 2023

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bill from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until April 18, 2023, to act on this bill. CS/SB 106 – Florida Shared-Use Nonmotorized Trail…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Four Judicial Appointments

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announces four judicial appointments: one to the Fifth District Court of Appeal, one to the Fourth Judicial Circuit Court, one to the Duval County Court, and one to the Sarasota County Court.…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards More Than $22 Million to Eight Florida Communities Through the Broadband Opportunity Program

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced a second round of awards through the Broadband Opportunity Program to expand broadband Internet access in Florida’s underserved communities. More than $22 million was awarded…

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What Recruits Are Saying: Governor Ron DeSantis Announces More Than 1,750 Bonuses Awarded to New Law Enforcement Recruits

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida has awarded more than 1,750 bonuses to newly employed law enforcement recruits through the Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Program. To date, 530 law enforcement recruits…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards $4 Million for New I-75 Interchange in Ocala, Announces Third Buc-ee's Location in Florida

OCALA, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded $4 million to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund to add a new interchange at I-75 and Northwest 49th Street in Marion County. These funds…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces More Than 1,750 Bonuses Awarded to New Law Enforcement Recruits

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida continues to reach new milestones in law enforcement recruitment, issuing more than 1,750 bonuses through the Florida Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Program. This…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards Fort Myers Beach with $11.9 Million, First Award Through the Local Government Emergency Bridge Loan Program

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded $11.9 million to the Town of Fort Myers Beach through the Local Government Emergency Bridge Loan – the first award through the program created in a Special Legislative Session…

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Fish and Wildlife Foundation Honors First Lady Casey DeSantis for Her Lifetime Conservation Efforts at the Annual Night for Nature

JUPITER, Fla. — Last Friday, the Fish and Wildlife Foundation of Florida honored First Lady Casey DeSantis at their annual Night for Nature fundraiser for her lifetime conservation efforts to raise awareness for the protection of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes One Judicial Appointment

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced one judicial appointment to the Pasco County Court. Knute Nathe, of Dade City, to serve as Judge on the Pasco County Court Nathe has been an associate at McClain Alfonso, P.A.…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Discusses Best Pet Practices with Florida Animal Advocates

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, First Lady Casey DeSantis was joined by Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) Secretary Melanie Griffin and Florida animal advocates to discuss ways to improve protections for Florida’s pet…

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Governor DeSantis Receives Two Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until April 10, 2023, to act on these bills. CS/HB 543 – Public Safety HB 7025 – Public…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs HB 543 - Constitutional Carry

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill (HB) 543 which strengthens Floridians’ Second Amendment rights by allowing Floridians to carry concealed weapons without a government-issued permit. HB 543 goes into…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Two Bills

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: CS/HB 543 – Public Safety HB 7025 – Public Records Please see the attached transmittal letter…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Legislation to Support Economic Development Through Record Funding for Florida's Housing Programs

NAPLES, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill (SB) 102, the Live Local Act, representing the largest investment for housing efforts in state history. The bill invests $711 million in multiple programs to expand the…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Announces Hope Florida - A Pathway to Potential, Expanding the Hope Florida Model to Support At-Risk Youth and Their Families

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, First Lady Casey DeSantis announced the launch of Hope Florida – A Pathway to Potential to break down government silos and expand services for at-risk youth and their families. “In Florida, we believe…

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Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis Host the First Annual Heroes' Reception at the Mansion

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Last Friday, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis welcomed heroes from across the state of Florida to the Governor’s Mansion to honor them for exhibiting courage, perseverance, and self-sacrifice. This…

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Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of the Victims of the Tragedy in Nashville, Tennessee

TO: Tom Berger, Director of Real Estate Management and Development FROM: Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Tuesday, March 28, 2023 RE: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of the Victims of the Tragedy in Nashville, Tennessee As a mark of respect for…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards More Than $5.4 Million to Four Small and Rural Florida Communities

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded more than $5.4 million to the Town of Callahan, the City of Starke, the City of Haines City and the City of Labelle for community development projects that will expand job opportunities…

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Governor DeSantis Receives One Bill from the Florida Legislature - March 28, 2023

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bill from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until April 4, 2023, to act on this…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Historic Legislation to Expand School Choice Options to All Florida Students

MIAMI — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill (HB) 1, which expands available school choice options for all students in Florida by eliminating financial eligibility restrictions and the current enrollment cap. Florida already has 1.3…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints Digvijay "Danny" Gaekwad to the University of Central Florida Board of Trustees

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of Digvijay “Danny” Gaekwad to the University of Central Florida Board of Trustees. Digvijay “Danny” Gaekwad Gaekwad, of Ocala, is the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the State Board of Education

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Kelly Garcia and MaryLynn Magar and the reappointment of Ryan Petty to the State Board of Education. Kelly Garcia Garcia serves on the Board of Directors of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Early Learning Coalition of Lake County

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Courtney Yarkosky as Chair, Morgan Entsuah, and Laura Tolbert to the Early Learning Coalition of Lake County. Courtney Yarkosky Yarkosky, of Montverde, is a…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Five to the Board of Physical Therapy Practice

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Steven Chenoweth, Ellen Donald, Rebecca Matthews, and Dr. Michele Morgan and the reappointment of Paul Kleponis to the Board of Physical Therapy Practice. Steven…

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Governor DeSantis Receives One Bill from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bill from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until March 31, 2023, to act on this bill. CS/CS/HB 837 – Civil…

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Governor DeSantis Announces Florida Adds 34,000 Private Sector Jobs, Unemployment Rate Remains at a Low 2.6 Percent While the National Rate Increases

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida’s economy continues to work for Floridians with February’s unemployment rate remaining at a low 2.6 percent, while the national rate increased to 3.6 percent.…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Eight Bills

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: SB 32 – Florida Statutes SB 34 – Florida Statutes SB 36 – Florida Statutes SB 38 – Florida Statutes SB 40 – Florida Statutes…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Comprehensive Legal Reforms into Law

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill (HB) 837, Civil Remedies, to decrease frivolous lawsuits and prevent predatory practices of trial attorneys who prey on hardworking Floridians. This bill modifies the bad faith…

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4,500 Teachers Earn the Civics Seal of Excellence Endorsement and Receive $3,000 Bonuses

ORANGE PARK, Fla. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted Florida’s continued commitment to expanding civics education in Florida schools and announced that the first 4,500 teachers have completed the Civics Seal of Excellence…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Announces Florida Becomes First State in the Nation to Collect Cancer Recurrence Data

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, First Lady Casey DeSantis announced that Florida will be the first state in the nation to collect cancer recurrence data – the Cancer Connect Collaborative’s first action to remove data access barriers…

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Governor DeSantis Receives Seven Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Yesterday, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until March 29, 2023, to act on these bills. SB 32 – Florida Statutes SB 34 – Florida Statutes…

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First Lady Casey Santis Announces Next Steps in Florida's First-In-The-Nation Approach to Create a Culture of Resiliency and Incentivize Parental Involvement in Schools

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, First Lady Casey DeSantis held a roundtable at Florida State University to discuss Florida’s nation-leading efforts to reframe mental health education to focus on resiliency. Following the roundtable, the State…

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Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Judge Kevin J. Carroll

On March 15, 2023, Second Judicial Circuit Judge Kevin J. Carroll passed away at the age of 67. Judge Carroll served his community as a judge for more than 12 years and as a lawyer for 40 years. He received his bachelor’s degree from Auburn…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Announces an Expansion of Hope Florida to Harness the Generosity of Private Sector Entities

TAMPA, Fla. — Today, First Lady Casey DeSantis announced an expansion of her Hope Florida initiative to provide private sector business entities with a seat at the table to be part of the solution in meeting the needs of Floridians. Walgreens…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Two Judicial Appointments

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announces two judicial appointments: one to the First Judicial Circuit Court and one to the Lake County Court. Steven Warrick, of Gulf Breeze, to serve as Judge on the First Judicial Circuit…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Legislation to Protect Floridians from a Federally Controlled Central Bank Digital Currency and Surveillance State

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced comprehensive legislation to protect Floridians from the Biden administration’s weaponization of the financial sector through a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). The…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Donald Rubottom as Chair to the Public Employees Relations Commission

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Donald Rubottom as chair to the Public Employees Relations Commission. This appointment is effective March 27, 2023. Donald Rubottom Rubottom, of Tallahassee,…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Highlights Recovery Efforts Following Hurricane Ian

FORT MYERS, Fla. —Today, Governor Ron DeSantis visited Fort Myers to highlight recovery efforts following Hurricane Ian. In the six months since Hurricane Ian made landfall, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) has secured…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Preston Farrior to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commissionv

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Preston Farrior to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Preston Farrior Farrior, of Tampa, is the President of Cigar City Motors. He is a…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Six to the Alzheimer's Disease Advisory Committee

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Alex Anderson, Dr. Rosemary Laird, Jason Lederman, and Stacy Plean and the reappointment of Corinne Labyak and Dr. Jonathan Weiss to the Alzheimer’s Disease…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Leads Alliance of 18 States to Fight Against Biden’s ESG Financial Fraud

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis and the governors of Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, West…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Highlights Three Years of Florida’s Success After Rejecting COVID-19 Orthodoxy

WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis marked the third year since “15 Days to Slow the Spread” was implemented in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and put the United States under a state of emergency. President Biden…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Hosts a Women of Faith Breakfast Reception to Discuss Hope Florida

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — First Lady Casey DeSantis welcomed female faith leaders from across Florida into the Governor’s Mansion to discuss her Hope Florida – A Pathway to Prosperity initiative spearheaded by First Lady Casey DeSantis.…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Approval of Over $46.6 Million to Conserve 21,000 Acres to Further the Florida Wildlife Corridor

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Yesterday, Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet approved the investment of over $46.6 million to conserve five properties across the state totaling more than 21,000 acres. Four of the five properties are in the…

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Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez Announces Second Annual Spring 2023 Florida Space Art Contest for K-5 Students

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez announced the launch of the 2023 Florida Space Art Contest at Dante B. Fascell Elementary in Miami. With March being Youth Art Month, students in grades K–5 are…

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Governor DeSantis Announces Florida's Unemployment Rate Remains Lower Than the Nation for 27th Consecutive Month

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced Florida’s January economic data demonstrates the continued strength and success of Florida’s economy. In January, Florida’s unemployment rate was 2.6% and remained…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Hosts Roundtable Exposing the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Scam in Higher Education

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis held a roundtable discussion on divisive concepts such as Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, Critical Race Theory (CRT) and the impact that these concepts have had on Florida…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Nearly 11,000 Foreigners Repatriated After Attempting to Enter Florida Illegally During Biden's Border Crisis

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced since August 21, 2022, nearly 11,000 migrants have been repatriated after attempting to enter the state illegally. Over the weekend, 167 migrants were interdicted, with 51 migrants…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Debunks Book Ban Hoax

Click here for a video presentation. To download, click here. ***EXPLICIT CONTENT NOT SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN*** TAMPA, FL — On March 8th, Governor Ron DeSantis further set the record straight, debunking the mainstream media, unions and…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Delivers State of the State Address

Tallahassee, FL — On March 7th, Governor Ron DeSantis delivered his State of the State address to the joint legislative session from the Florida House of Representatives chamber in Tallahassee. Watch the full address here. You can find a full…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces First Month of Toll Relief Program Savings

Tallahassee, FL— On March 2nd, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that the Toll Relief Program, signed into law by the Governor in December 2022, concluded its first month of toll relief for Florida’s commuters in January, totaling nearly…

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Governor DeSantis Receives Two Bills from the Florida Legislature

Tallahassee, FL — On March 2nd, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until March 17, 2023, to act on these bills. HB 11B – Sunshine Water Control District, Broward County…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces $50 Million Available for Local Governments Impacted by Hurricanes Ian and Nicole

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that $50 million is available for communities impacted by hurricanes Ian and Nicole through the Local Government Emergency Bridge Loan Program. Administered by the Florida Department…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Nearly 1,400 Bonuses Issued to New Law Enforcement Recruits

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that nearly 1,400 bonuses have been issued to newly employed law enforcement recruits in Florida. Through the Florida Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Payment Program, 431 people from…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Five to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District

Lake Buena Vista, FL —On Feb 27th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Martin Garcia, Bridget Ziegler, Brian Aungst Jr., Michael A. Sasso, and Ron Peri to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, with Mr. Garcia appointed…

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Governor DeSantis Signs One Bill

Lake Buena Vista, FL — On Feb 27th, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bill: CS/HB 9B – Reedy Creek Improvement District, Orange and Osceola Counties Click here to view the transmittal…

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Governor DeSantis Receives One Bill from the Florida Legislature

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 27th, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bill from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until March 14, 2023, to act on this bill. CS/HB 9B – Reedy Creek Improvement District, Orange and Osceola…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Legislation Ending the Corporate Kingdom of Walt Disney World

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 27th, Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill (HB) 9-B, Reedy Creek Improvement District, Orange, and Osceola Counties, to end self-governing status and special privileges provided to Walt Disney World through the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Two to the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 24th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Cara Higgins and Richard Toppino to the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority. Cara Higgins Higgins, of Key West, is the Owner of Cara Higgins Law Firm. She…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints Three to the Commercial Motor Vehicle Review Board

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 24th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of Jonathan “Scott” Christy, Kathy Panozzo, and Scott Reagan to the Commercial Motor Vehicle Review Board. Jonathan…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Donald DeFosset to the Tampa Sports Authority

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 24th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Donald DeFosset to the Tampa Sports Authority. Donald DeFosset DeFosset, of Tampa, is the former President and Chief Executive Officer of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the State Council for Interstate Adult Offender Supervision

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 24th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Stormie Knight and the reappointment of Adrian Soud and Patricia Tuthill to the State Council for Interstate Adult Offender Supervision. …

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Memo: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Police Chief Derrick Diggs

MEMORANDUM TO: Tom Berger, Director of Real Estate Development and Management Randall Pepitone, Deputy Police Chief, Fort Myers Police Department Brian Hamman, Chairman, Lee County Commissioners Kevin Anderson, Mayor, City of Fort Myers…

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Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis Host Students and Teachers to Celebrate Black History Month

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis honored Black History Month with a reception at the Governor’s Mansion. At the event, the Governor and First Lady announced the winners of the student and…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Legislation to Counteract Biden's Border Crisis

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced an extensive legislative proposal to take action against the increasing threats posed by illegal immigration as a result of the Biden administration’s failure to secure our…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Announces the Cancer Connect Collaborative to Explore Innovative Strategies for Cancer Treatment and Care

TAMPA, Fla. — Today, First Lady Casey DeSantis announced the Cancer Connect Collaborative, an expansion of Florida Cancer Connect that will assemble a team of medical professionals to analyze and rethink Florida’s approach to combatting…

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Inflation Hits Valentine’s Day

Floridians, On Tuesday, the January Consumer Price Index report was released and it indicated that inflation increased 6.4% annually. With inflation rates like these, people are going to have to do PB&Js more often. Everything is more…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Four to the Broward College District Board of Trustees

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 17th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Cindy Kushner, Alexis Yarbrough, and Mario Zanotti-Cavazzoni and the reappointment of Zachariah “Reggie” Zachariah Jr. to the Broward College…

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Florida Breaks Record for Highest Visitation in State History

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 15th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida had record visitation in 2022. VISIT FLORIDA estimates that Florida welcomed 137.6 million visitors in 2022, an increase of five percent over 2019 and 12.9 percent…

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Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis Announce Plans for $205.7 Million Opioid Settlement Agreement

DESTIN, Fla. — Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by First Lady Casey DeSantis to announce plans for the $205.7 million from the Opioid Settlement Agreement. These funds will establish the Office of Opioid Recovery, within the Department of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Southwest Florida Water Management District

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of James Holton, Dustin Rowland, and Robert Stern to the Southwest Florida Water Management District. James Holton Holton, of St. Petersburg, is the President and…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Eleven to the Florida Building Commission

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of James Batts, David Compton, Brian Langille, Asael Marrero, Bradley Schiffer, Frederick Schilling Jr., and Stephen Wilcox and the reappointment of Michael…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Four to the Holmes County Housing Authority

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Billy “Eddie” Dixon, Vernon Lewis, Jared White, and Betty Yancey to the Holmes County Housing Authority. ­­­Billy “Eddie” Dixon …

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Governor DeSantis Signs Bill to Empower Student Athletes and Support Professional Development

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by student-athletes from Florida State University and the University of Florida to sign House Bill (HB) 7-B, revising Florida’s laws relating to Name, Image and Likeness (NIL).…

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Memo: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Former Representative James Rollins Eddy

On January 20, 2023, former Representative James Rollins Eddy passed away at the age of 91. From 1963 to 1968, Representative Eddy represented Broward County and District 82 in the Florida House. During his time in the House, he served on several…

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Florida Breaks Record for Highest Visitation in State History

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida had record visitation in 2022. VISIT FLORIDA estimates that Florida welcomed 137.6 million visitors in 2022, an increase of five percent over 2019 and 12.9 percent over…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Introduces Groundbreaking Legislation to Protect the Digital Rights and Privacy of All Floridians

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced his proposal to protect Floridians’ digital rights and privacy from Big Tech companies by creating a Digital Bill of Rights that focuses on protecting Floridians’ privacy,…

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Governor DeSantis Signs Three Bills

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the following bills: SB 2B – Emergency Response SB 4B – Statewide Prosecutor SB 6B – Transportation of Inspected Unauthorized Aliens Click Here To see the…

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Governor DeSantis Receives One Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until March 2, 2023, to act on this bill.

HB 7B – Intercollegiate Athlete Compensation and Rights

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Comprehensive Lawsuit Reforms to Protect Floridians from Predatory Billboard Attorneys

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 14th, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Senate President Kathleen Passidomo and House Speaker Paul Renner to announce the most comprehensive reforms in decades to decrease frivolous lawsuits and prevent predatory…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Legislation to Protect Floridians from the Woke ESG Financial Scam

Naples, FL — On Feb 13th, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Senate President Kathleen Passidomo and House Speaker Paul Renner to announce comprehensive legislation to protect Floridians from the woke environmental, social, and corporate…

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Memo: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Marjory Stoneman Douglas Remembrance Day

MEMORANDUM TO: Tom Berger, Director of Real Estate Development and Management FROM: Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Monday, February 13, 2023 RE: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Marjory Stoneman…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Awards $50,000 in Hope Florida Funds to Five Leon and Jackson County Non-Profit Organizations

Tallahassee, FL — First Lady Casey DeSantis and Mason DeSantis surprised five exceptional Leon and Jackson County non-profit organizations with $10,000 each through the Hope Florida Fund. Recipients recognized by the First Lady were: City…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards Nearly $240 Million to Improve Water Quality Across the State

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 10th, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded $240 million through the Wastewater Grant Program to support 36 wastewater infrastructure projects to reduce nutrients in Florida’s waterways. Awarded projects include advanced…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Nominates Michael Yaworsky as Commissioner of the Office of Insurance Regulation

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 10th, Governor Ron DeSantis nominated Michael Yaworksy as Commissioner of the Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR). Yaworksky is currently Vice Chair of the Florida Gaming Control Commission and previously served as…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Two to the Lake Region Lakes Management District Board of Commissioners

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 10th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Carter Adams and Dr. Kevin Henne to the Lake Region Lakes Management District Board of Commissioners. Carter Adams Adams, of Winter Haven, is the Owner and…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints David Osteen to the Dixie County Board of County Commissioners

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 10th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of David Osteen to the Dixie County Board of County Commissioners. David Osteen Osteen is a Correctional Officer for the Florida Department of Corrections. He…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Christine Vanderpool to the Florida Cybersecurity Advisory Council

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 10th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Christine Vanderpool to the Florida Cybersecurity Advisory Council. Christine Vanderpool Vanderpool is the Chief Information Security Officer for Florida…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Seven to the Medical Examiners Commission

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 10th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Michael Barnett, Charles Cofer, Amira Fox, Robert “Bob” Johnson, Robin Sheppard, Dr. Joshua Stephany, and Dr. Barbara Wolf to the Medical Examiners…

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Governor DeSantis Recieves Three Bills from the Florida Legislature

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 10th, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until February 25, 2023, to act on these bills. SB 2B – Emergency Response SB 4B –…

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CFO Jimmy Patronis: Biden's 'Tip Tax' is a Shame

Tallahassee, FL -- On Feb 8th, CFO Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the IRS announcement of a proposed new tip reporting program between the IRS and employers in service industries. The IRS proposed the new revenue procedure this week to…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards Nearly $240 Million to Improve Water Quality Across the State

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded $240 million through the Wastewater Grant Program to support 36 wastewater infrastructure projects to reduce nutrients in Florida’s waterways. Awarded projects include advanced…

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Governor DeSantis Receives Three Bills from the Florida Legislature

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received the following bills from the Florida Legislature. The Governor has until February 25, 2023, to act on these bills. SB 2B – Emergency Response SB 4B – Statewide…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Hosts Roundtable Discussion on Legacy Media Defamation Practices

Click here or above to watch the roundtable. Use of video courtesy of the Executive Office of Governor Ron DeSantis. HIALEAH GARDENS, FL — On Feb 7th, Governor Ron DeSantis held a roundtable to discuss the damaging impacts of defamation from…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Two Judicial Appointments - February 7, 2023

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 7th, Governor Ron DeSantis announces two judicial appointments: one to the Hamilton County Court and one to the Hillsborough County Court. Jamie Tyndal, of Jasper, to serve as Judge on the Hamilton County Court…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Highlights Plan to Provide a Historic $2 Billion in Tax Relief for Florida Families

OCALA, FL. — On Feb 8th, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Senate President Kathleen Passidomo and House Speaker Paul Renner to highlight their intent to pass the largest tax relief proposal in Florida history to save Florida families a…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Award of More than $275 Million through the Resilient Florida Grant Program

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 6th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the award of more than $275 million immediately available for 75 resilience projects using already-appropriated funding through the Resilient Florida program to help prepare coastal…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Two Judicial Nominating Commission Appointments

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 6th, Governor Ron DeSantis announces the following appointments to Florida’s Nineteenth Judicial Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission. Nineteenth Judicial Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission Michael…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints Two to the Central Florida Expressway Authority

Tallahassee, FL — On Feb 7th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of Christopher “C.J.” Maier and Rafael “Ralph” Martinez to the Central Florida Expressway Authority. Christopher “C.J.” Maier…

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What They Are Saying: Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Framework for Freedom Budget

Tallahassee, FL — Two days ago, Governor Ron DeSantis announced his Framework for Freedom Budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2023-2024. The Framework for Freedom Budget totals $114.8 billion, with total reserves exceeding $15 billion. The…

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TikTok Bans, Budgets, and Backing Small Businesses

This week, we toured the state stopping in Clermont, Tampa, and Boca Raton to highlight my “Four Pillars of IRS Protection”to safeguard Florida families and small businesses from overreach by the Internal Revenue Services (IRS). With…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Announces Private-Sector Support for Floridians Impacted by Hurricane Ian and Awards $2.6 Million to Accelerate Recovery Efforts

FORT MYERS, Fla. — On Feb 3rd, First Lady Casey DeSantis met with individuals impacted by Hurricane Ian and awarded funding through the Florida Disaster Fund to non-profits and faith-based organizations that have supported Floridians impacted…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces First Awards Through Broadband Opportunity Program

More Than $144 Million Awarded to 58 Projects Across 41 Florida Counties MILTON, FL — On Feb 2nd, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the first set of awards through the Broadband Opportunity Grant Program to expand access to broadband internet…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Announces Private-Sector Support for Floridians Impacted by Hurricane Ian and Awards $2.1 Million to Accelerate Recovery Efforts

FORT MYERS, Fla. — Today, First Lady Casey DeSantis met with individuals impacted by Hurricane Ian and awarded funding through the Florida Disaster Fund to non-profits and faith-based organizations that have supported Floridians impacted by…

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WHAT THEY ARE SAYING Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Framework for Freedom Budget

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Two days ago, Governor Ron DeSantis announced his Framework for Freedom Budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2023-2024. The Framework for Freedom Budget totals $114.8 billion, with total reserves exceeding $15 billion. The…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Patrick Zalupski to the University of Florida Board of Trustees

TALLAHASSEE, FL — On Feb 2nd, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Patrick Zalupski to the University of Florida Board of Trustees. Patrick Zalupski Zalupski of Ponte Vedra Beach is the Founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Awards $50,000 in Hope Florida Funds to Five Polk County Non-Profit Organizations

Auburndale, FL — First Lady Casey DeSantis surprised five exceptional Polk County non-profit organizations with $10,000 each through the Hope Florida Fund. Recipients recognized by the First Lady were: Everyday Christians Helping Orphans…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Framework for Freedom Budget

TALLAHASSEE, FL – On Feb 1st, Governor Ron DeSantis announced his Framework for Freedom Budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2023–2024. The Framework for Freedom Budget totals $114.8 billion, with total reserves exceeding $15 billion. The…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces First Awards Through Broadband Opportunity Program

MILTON, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the first set of awards through the Broadband Opportunity Grant Program to expand access to broadband internet for Florida’s underserved communities. More than $144 million was…

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First Lady Casey DeSantis Awards $50,000 in Hope Florida Funds to Five Polk County Non-Profit Organizations

AUBURNDALE, Fla. — First Lady Casey DeSantis surprised five exceptional Polk County non-profit organizations with $10,000 each through the Hope Florida Fund. Recipients recognized by the First Lady were: Everyday Christians Helping Orphans…

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Governor DeSantis Elevates Civil Discourse and Intellectual Freedom in Higher Education

Legislative Proposal Takes a Stand Against Academic Discrimination and Indoctrination Sarasota, FL – On Jan 31st, Governor Ron DeSantis announced legislation for the 2023 Session to further elevate civil discourse and intellectual freedom in…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Leah Valenti as Charlotte County Supervisor of Elections

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 30th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Leah Valenti as Charlotte County Supervisor of Elections. Leah Valenti Valenti, of Port Charlotte, is the External Affairs Manager for TECO Peoples Gas. She…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Dr. Watson Ducatel to the Board of Osteopathic Medicine

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 30th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Dr. Watson Ducatel to the Board of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Watson Ducatel Dr. Ducatel is the Owner and Physician of Healthy Bodies Medical Center. He…

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Governor DeSantis Elevates Civil Discourse and Intellectual Freedom in Higher Education

SARASOTA, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced legislation for the 2023 Session to further elevate civil discourse and intellectual freedom in higher education, further pushing back against the tactics of liberal elites who suppress…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Moving Florida Forward Infrastructure Initiative

Governor proposes a $4 billion investment, which will be leveraged for a total of $7 billion, to expedite projects that will alleviate congestion and prioritize safety Auburndale, FL — On Jan 30th, Governor DeSantis announced the Moving…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Law and Order Legislation

MIAMI — On Jan 26th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced his legislative proposal to maintain and further improve Florida’s 50-year record low crime rate. This proposal pushes back against the abolishment of cash bail, increases penalties…

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Memo: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Aerospace Hero Colonel Joseph W. Kittinger, Jr.

Colonel Joseph W. Kittinger, Jr. passed away on December 9, 2022, at the age of 94. Born and raised in the State of Florida, Colonel Kittinger was a proud Floridian who accomplished many aviation achievements throughout his life. He dedicated…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Hometown Heroes Program Reaches Milestone $50 Million Awarded for Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 25th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that the Hometown Heroes housing assistance program has awarded more than $50 million in down payment and closing cost assistance to Florida’s hometown heroes. The program…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Law and Order Legislation

Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Law and Order Legislation MIAMI — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced his legislative proposal to maintain and further improve Florida’s 50-year record low crime rate. This proposal pushes back…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Hometown Heroes Program Reaches Milestone $50 Million Awarded for Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance

Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Hometown Heroes Program Reaches Milestone $50 Million Awarded for Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that the Hometown Heroes housing…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Unprecedented Legislation to Empower Educators, Protect Teachers from Over Reaching School Unions and Raise Teacher Pay

JACKSONVILLE, FL — On Jan 23rd, Governor Ron DeSantis announced an unprecedented legislative proposal to create a Teacher’s Bill of Rights that empowers educators to be leaders in their classrooms, enact paycheck protection, reduce terms…

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Governor DeSantis Announces Florida’s Unemployment Rate Drops to 2.5 Percent in December 2022

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 20th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida’s unemployment rate dropped to 2.5 percent in December 2022, a historic low last reached in 2006, demonstrating that Florida has continued to grow and recover…

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Florida Backs the Blue

Floridians, Early this week, the Florida Cabinet convened to recognize brave individuals from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), who had been awarded special honors in 2021. I am always proud to be able to honor the heroes that…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Unprecedented Legislation to Empower Educators, Protect Teachers from Overreaching School Unions and Raise Teacher Pay

Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Unprecedented Legislation to Empower Educators, Protect Teachers from Overreaching School Unions and Raise Teacher Pay JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced an unprecedented…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Additional Funding to Support Floridians Impacted by Hurricane Ian

$1 million will support teachers impacted by Hurricane Ian and $13.8 million will support mental health services Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 19th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that he has directed the Department of Children and Families…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Nearly $20 Million for Water Quality Projects to Restore the Indian River Lagoon

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 19th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced nearly $20 million to support water quality improvement projects along the Indian River Lagoon (IRL). These projects will help collect stormwater runoff and treat it to reduce the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet Invest Over $17.7 Million to Conserve 3,500 Acres in Florida

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 17th, Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet approved the investment of more than $17.7 million to conserve more than 3,500 acres across the state. The five properties stretch from Nassau County south to…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Award of $100 Million for Beach Recovery Following Hurricanes Ian and Nicole

Funding to support restoration of Florida’s beaches, the state’s first line of defense against storm events Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 18th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the award of $100 million to support beach nourishment…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Nearly $20 Million for Water Quality Projects to Restore the Indian River Lagoon

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced nearly $20 million to support water quality improvement projects along the Indian River Lagoon (IRL). These projects will help collect stormwater runoff and treat it to reduce the…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Additional Funding to Support Floridians Impacted by Hurricane Ian

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that he has directed the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to utilize $13.8 million in grant funding to support and expand mental health resources for Floridians impacted by…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces the Appointment of Luis Soler as the Director of the Florida State Guard

Governor Ron DeSantis Announces the Appointment of Luis Soler as the Director of the Florida State Guard TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Luis Soler as the Director of the Florida State Guard.…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Initiative to make Protections from COVID Mandates Permanent, Enact New Protections for Free Speech for Medical Practitioners

Permanently Protecting Floridians from the “Biomedical Security State” Panama City Beach, FL — On Jan 17th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced a common-sense legislative proposal to make permanent COVID-19 freedoms in Florida. This…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces the Appointment of Luis Soler as the Director of the Florida State Guard

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 17th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Luis Soler as the Director of the Florida State Guard. Luis Soler Soler is the Deputy Director and Chief of Operations for the Florida State Guard.…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Maria Bosque-Blanco to the School Board of Miami-Dade County

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 17th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Maria Bosque-Blanco to the School Board of Miami-Dade County. Maria Bosque-Blanco Bosque-Blanco, of Miami, is a Guidance Counselor at Our Lady of Lourdes…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Initiative to Make Protections from COVID Mandates Permanent, Enact New Protections for Free Speech for Medical Practitioners

Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Initiative to Make Protections from COVID Mandates Permanent, Enact New Protections for Free Speech for Medical Practitioners PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced a common-sense…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Maria Bosque-Blanco to the School Board of Miami-Dade County

Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Maria Bosque-Blanco to the School Board of Miami-Dade County TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Maria Bosque-Blanco to the School Board of Miami-Dade County. Maria…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Further Prohibits Woke ESG Considerations from State Investments

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 17th, Governor Ron DeSantis and Trustees of the State Board of Administration (SBA) formally approved measures to protect Florida’s investments from woke environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG),…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes One Judicial Appointment-January 13, 2023

Governor Ron DeSantis Makes One Judicial Appointment-January 13, 2023 TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announces one judicial appointment to the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court. Javier Enriquez, of Miami, to serve as…

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During Human Trafficking Awareness Month, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez and Florida Highway Patrol Host Roundtable to Highlight Human Trafficking and Drug Trafficking Prevention Efforts

Brooksville, FL — On Jan 12th, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez and the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) hosted a roundtable discussion with law enforcement leaders about efforts to combat human trafficking. At the roundtable, law…

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Florida Launches 2023 Black History Month Student and Educator Contests

Student essay contest winners will receive a 2-year Florida College Plan scholarship provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 13th, the Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida officially…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes One Judicial Appointment

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 13th, Governor Ron DeSantis announces one judicial appointment to the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court. Javier Enriquez, of Miami, to serve as Judge on the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court Enriquez has served as a…

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What They Are Saying: Governor Ron DeSantis Proposes Relief for Prescription Drug Prices, Protects Small Businesses from Pharmaceutical Middlemen

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 12th, Governor Ron DeSantis was in The Villages to announce a legislative proposal to protect consumers and small businesses and rein in Pharmacy Benefit Managers through accountability in Florida’s drug market.…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Board of Dentistry

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 13th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Ben Assad Mirza and the reappointment of Dr. Christine Bojaxhi and Dr. Thomas McCawley to the Board of Dentistry. Ben Assad Mirza Mirza, of Plantation, is an…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Unveils Comprehensive Legislation to Increase Big Pharma Transparency and Accountability and Lower Prescription Drug Prices

The Villages, FL — On Jan 12th, Governor Ron DeSantis unveiled a legislative proposal to reign in unchecked Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) and drive transparency among prescription drug prices influenced by Big Pharma. This proposal furthers…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Board of Dentistry

Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Board of Dentistry TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Ben Assad Mirza and the reappointment of Dr. Christine Bojaxhi and Dr. Thomas McCawley to the…

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Florida Launches 2023 Black History Month Student and Educator Contests

Florida Launches 2023 Black History Month Student and Educator Contests TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, the Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida officially launched the 2023 Black History Month student art and essay contests…

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What They Are Saying: Governor Ron DeSantis Proposes Relief for Prescription Drug Prices, Protects Small Businesses from Pharmaceutical Middlemen

What They Are Saying: Governor Ron DeSantis Proposes Relief for Prescription Drug Prices, Protects Small Businesses from Pharmaceutical Middlemen TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Yesterday, Governor Ron DeSantis was in The Villages to announce a…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Makes One Judicial Nominating Commission Appointment

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 11th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the following appointment to Florida’s Twentieth Judicial Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission. Twentieth Judicial Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission Katherine…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Historic Executive Order Continuing Commitment to Stewardship of Florida’s Natural Resources

Bonita Springs, FL — On Jan 10th, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Executive Order 23-06 (Achieving Even More Now for Florida’s Environment), to further advance the protection of Florida’s environment and water quality. The Executive…

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What They Are Saying: Environmental Leaders Applaud Governor Ron DeSantis’ Historic Executive Order Continuing His Commitment to Stewardship of Florida’s Natural Resources

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 10th, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Executive Order 23-06 (Achieving Even More Now for Florida’s Environment) to further advance the protection of Florida’s environment and water quality. Read what…

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Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez Highlights 2022 Administration Successes

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 10th, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez highlighted the 2022 Administration successes across public health, space, cyber, human trafficking, and various other areas. "In our first term in office, we not only…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces the Appointment of Major General John D. Haas as Adjutant General of Florida

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 10th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Major General John D. Haas as Adjutant General of Florida. Major General John D. Haas Major General Haas is the Assistant Adjutant General – Army and…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Highlights Administration’s Major Accomplishments of 2022

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 9th, Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted the efforts his administration has taken on behalf of Floridians over the past year. Fostering a Nation-Leading Economy In 2022, Florida’s unemployment rate continued…

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Keeping Florida Free in 2023

Floridians, This week, I was honored to be sworn in for a second term as Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal of the free state of Florida. My journey in public service started nearly 18 years ago, and since the beginning, I have always…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Highlights Administration's Major Accomplishments of 2022

Governor Ron DeSantis Highlights Administration's Major Accomplishments of 2022 TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted the efforts his administration has taken on behalf of Floridians over the past year. Fostering a…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Nominates Dave Kerner as Executive Director of Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles

Governor Ron DeSantis Nominates Dave Kerner as Executive Director of Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis nominated Dave Kerner as Executive Director of the Florida…

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Memo: Executive Order 23-02 (Emergency Management - Extension of Executive Order 22-253 - Hurricane Nicole)

On Jan 5th, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 23-02 (Emergency Management - Extension of Executive Order 22-253 - Hurricane Nicole), extending the state of emergency for Hurricane Nicole. This extension is necessary because impacted…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Nominates Dave Kerner as Executive Director of Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles

Governor DeSantis also announced his appointment of Michael Barnett to the Palm Beach County Commission Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 5th, Governor Ron DeSantis nominated Dave Kerner as Executive Director of the Florida Department of Highway…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Six to the New College of Florida Board of Trustees

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 6th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Christopher Rufo, Dr. Matthew Spalding, Dr. Charles R. Kesler, Dr. Mark Bauerlein, Debra Jenks, and Jason “Eddie” Speir to the New College of Florida…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Executive Order and Activates National Guard to Provide Support as Biden Administration Ignores Alarming Influx of Migrants to Florida Keys

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — On Jan 6th, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Executive Order (EO) 23- 03 (Emergency Management – Illegal Migration), activating the Florida National Guard, directing state law enforcement agencies and other state agencies…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces $79 Million for Nursing Education and Health Care Partnerships

The funding rewards excellence among nursing education programs and provides workforce support throughout the state Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 5th, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded $79 million for high-performing nursing education programs in…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Jose R. Oliva to the Board of Governors of the State University System

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 4th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Jose R. Oliva to the Board of Governors of the State University System. Jose R. Oliva Oliva is the Chief Executive Officer at Oliva International Foods. A…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces $79 Million for Nursing Education and Health Care Partnerships

Governor Ron DeSantis Announces $79 Million for Nursing Education and Health Care Partnerships TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded $79 million for high-performing nursing education programs in Florida. The funding…

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Memorandum: Executive Order 23-02 (Emergency Management-Extension of Executive Order 22-253-Hurricane Nicole)

Memorandum: Executive Order 23-02 (Emergency Management-Extension of Executive Order 22-253-Hurricane Nicole) MEMORANDUM TO: Members of the Press FROM: Taryn Fenske, Director of Communications, Governor Ron DeSantis…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Jose R. Oliva to the Board of Governors of the State University System

Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Jose R. Oliva to the Board of Governors of the State University System TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Jose R. Oliva to the Board of Governors of the State…

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Governor DeSantis Delivers Inaugural Address, Sets Priorities for Second Term

Tallahassee, FL — On Jan 3rd, Governor Ron DeSantis delivered his second inaugural address from the steps of the Florida Historic Capitol in Tallahassee. In his address to Floridians, Governor DeSantis highlighted the progress that Florida has…

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Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Corporal Ray Hamilton

On Saturday, December 24, 2022, Corporal Ray Hamilton passed away from critical injuries sustained in the line of duty when responding to a domestic violence incident. He served the community as a Deputy for the last five-and-a-half years in…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Board of Podiatric Medicine

Tallahassee, FL — On Dec 28th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Dr. Robert Snyder and Dr. Cary Zinkin and the reappointment of Dr. Mark Block to the Board of Podiatric Medicine. Dr. Robert Snyder Dr. Snyder is the Dean of…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Four to the Board of Chiropractic Medicine

Tallahassee, FL — On Dec 28th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Dr. Todd Cielo and Luis Fuste and the reappointment of Dr. Walter Melton and Dr. Michael Roberts to the Board of Chiropractic Medicine. Dr. Todd Cielo Dr.…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the Florida Commission on the Status of Women

Tallahassee, FL — On Dec 28th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Maruchi Azorin, Melissa Stone, and Maria Wells to the Florida Commission on the Status of Women. Maruchi Azorin Azorin, of Tampa, is the Owner and Chief…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Seven to the Board of Pharmacy

Tallahassee, FL — On Dec 28th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Dr. Jonathan Hickman, Daniel Kirk, Dr. Cristina Medina, Dr. Jeffrey Mesaros, Jeenu Philip, and Stephen “Ryan” West and the reappointment of Maja Gift…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints Two to the Board of Optometry

Tallahassee, FL — On Dec 28th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of John Griffin and Dr. Katie Spear to the Board of Optometry. John Griffin Griffin, of Tallahassee, is an Attorney with Carson & Linn, P.A. He previously…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three to the E911 Board

Tallahassee, FL — On Dec 28th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Karen Dearden, Arnold Godwin, and Jason Shimko to the E911 Board. Karen Dearden Dearden, of Tallahassee, is the External Affairs Manager for AT&T…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Two to the Board of Medicine

Tallahassee, FL — On Dec 28th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Dr. Gregory Coffman and Dr. Matthew Benson to the Board of Medicine. Dr. Gregory Coffman Dr. Coffman is a Pediatrician at Orlando Health Physician…

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