BUDGET

On Thursday, April 10th, the House voted (72-41) and passed a $65.1 billion spending plan. In the remaining three weeks, we will negotiate a final budget bill before the May 2nd deadline. The current situation means significant reductions for nearly every state program, from public schools to prisons to health care programs for the poor. However, I plan on working closely with my colleagues in finding ways to reduce the impact that our state agencies will face.

We must find ways to maximize every taxpayer dollar. The budget cuts will be painful and felt across the state. During these difficult times, we must protect our most vulnerable citizens, our seniors and children. Cutting important healthcare programs will have tremendous, long-term impacts on our state’s economy. The choices we make in Tallahassee should be reflective of the priorities of Floridians.

ISRAELI RESOLUTION

Also, on Thursday, April 10th, I voted for, along with my fellow members of the House, and unanimously passed House Resolution 9081, State of Israel, which recognizes the 60th anniversary of independence of State of Israel. I have included the text of the resolution below for you to read.

WHEREAS, on May 14, 1948, the State of Israel was established as a sovereign and independent country, and

WHEREAS, Israel has provided Jews from all over the world with an opportunity to reestablish their ancient homeland and has become home to many religious sites that are sacred to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and

WHEREAS, the people of Israel have established a pluralistic democracy that incorporates the freedoms cherished by the people of the United States, including the freedom of speech, the freedom of religion, the freedom of association, and the freedom of the press, and

WHEREAS, Israel continues to serve as a shining model of democratic values by holding free and fair elections, promoting the free exchange of ideas, and maintaining a democratic government that is fully representative of its citizens, and

WHEREAS, the government of Israel has successfully worked with the neighboring governments of Egypt and Jordan to establish peaceful bilateral relations and, despite conflicts with other neighboring countries, continues to seek peace in the Middle East, and

WHEREAS, Israel has made significant global contributions in the fields of science, medicine, and technology, and

WHEREAS, the United States and Israel enjoy a strategic partnership based on shared democratic values, friendship, and respect, NOW, THEREFORE,

Be It Resolved by the House of Representatives of the State of Florida:

That the House of Representatives recognizes the numerous achievements of the people and the State of Israel and extends its best wishes to the people of Israel as they celebrate the 60th anniversary of the independence of their country.

Did you know that Palm Tran, Palm Beach County’s bus service, offers reduced fares to seniors age 65 and over, students 21 and younger, the disabled, and those on Medicare? Eligible recipients pay just $0.75 for fares, rather than the regular $1.50. Also remember transfer tickets can be purchased for just $0.50. Information on routes and schedules can be found at http://pbcgov.com/palmtran/