Well, I am back in District 59, and it sure does feel good to be home! It's been a busy week connecting with constituents, preparing for the upcoming special session, and organizing our re-election campaign. To keep you updated, I want to provide a brief overview of the important things taking place.

But first, a reminder that COVID-19 vaccines are available to all Floridians aged 12 and over. To find a vaccination site near you, please visit floridahealthcovid19.gov. You can also text your zipcode to 438829!  

Hillsborough County Schools Avoid State Takeover

There is some excellent news for our local students and teachers! With help from the federal government, Hillsborough county schools avoid a state takeover. The financial assistance will minimize staff layoffs, keep class sizes small, and ensure our students receive the best education possible. Additionally, the district has created a new financial plan that emphasizes sustainability and economic responsibility. Click here to read more.

DCF Launches Rental Assistance Program

The Florida Department of Children and Family Services has launched, Our Florida, a program offering emergency rental and utility assistance for struggling Floridians. This is a wonderful program designed to help Florida's poor, working, and middle-class families who've experienced COVID-19 related economic hardships. To learn more about the program, please visit ourflorida.com. If you need help applying, click here to send me an email, and someone from my team will follow up with you! 

2021 Legislative Session Debrief

Recently, I held a town hall breaking down the 2021 legislative session. I answered questions on several high-profile bills, including Republican efforts to suppress the vote, restrict freedom of speech, and raise taxes on working families. We also covered the positive work being done by Democrats and how I managed to pass several important bills while being in the minority party. Click here to watch the town hall.

Important Dates

The Regular Legislative Session is over; however, the week of May 17th, lawmakers will reconvene in Tallahassee for a special session to address Florida's gambling agreement with the Seminole Tribe. 

Also, on May 26th, we are kicking off our 2022 re-election campaign! Our first year in the Florida House of Representatives was very successful, passing 3 sponsored bills and 15 co-sponsored bills; however, Tallahassee Republicans and special interests are already lining up against me. Let's show Republicans how strong our campaign is by having a great turnout! Details and RSVP here. 

Thank you for taking the time to read my weekly review! If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out.

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