Ben Albritton says ‘laser focus’ led to productive Senate Session

With the 60 days of the regular Legislative Session now complete and a trio of returns to Tallahassee expected this Spring and Summer, Senate President Ben Albritton is upbeat about what his colleagues and he got done so far this year.

““While there is more work to do, this Session Senators maintained a laser focus on issues raised in their home communities, passing strong solutions that will now be sent to Governor (Ron) DeSantis,” said the Wauchula Republican.

Among the items particularly of note: a data center bill from Sen. Bryan Avila that will “safeguard Florida communities from situations we have seen in other states when large data centers drive up demand and the price of electricity skyrockets, causing affordability issues for families.”

A Sen. Don Gaetz measure “expands the School Guardian Program to higher education campuses so qualified personnel can be prepared to respond quickly to violent threats against students and faculty.”

Albritton also spotlighted election security legislation to keep foreigners from voting and efforts to clamp down on countries of foreign concern by Sen. Erin Grall, efforts to blunt local diversity, equity, and inclusion protections, help for veterans and for people with HIV.

Not every Senate idea could be sold to the House, Albritton added.

“While I’m grateful for the many successes we can take back to our communities this year, I would be remiss if I did not mention at least some additional elements of the robust agenda Senators advanced over the last 60 days. While ultimately these issues did not see final passage in the House, I am proud and grateful to our Senators for championing these important policies.”

These include rural renaissance legislation, school choice, the AI bill of rights, and medical freedom efforts that would make ivermectin easier to get.

But there is more to do yet.

“With affordability top of mind for Florida families, Senators will return to Tallahassee to put a meaningful option for property tax relief on the ballot for the fall election. We also know the best thing we in state government can do to help with affordability is to keep taxes low, limiting the financial burden taxes and regulations place on Florida’s families and businesses. To do so, state government has to live within its means, pay down debt, and save for the future. As we continue our work on the budget, we will hold the line on spending, live within our means and strike the right balance between spending and saving.”