May 5th, 2024 - Mayfield Minute

Mayfield Minute - May 5th, 2024

Good Morning!

This week marks the beginning of Military Appreciation Month, a time when we honor the exceptional courage, dedication, and selflessness of our armed forces. Military Appreciation Month was established by a resolution in the U.S. Senate in 1999 and continues to be recognized every year in May to pay tribute to our military.

Florida has the third largest military Veteran population in the nation with over 1.6 million Veterans living in our state, including approximately 67,000 residing in Brevard County. During the 2024 Legislative Session, the Legislature introduced and passed several bills to support Veterans.

HB 715 provides a public exemption to ensure that Veterans participating in the Veterans treatment court programs receive the treatment they need without the fear of their personal information being disclosed to the public.

The Legislature, along with First Lady Casey DeSantis, remains committed to supporting Veterans and their families across the state. "Hope Florida" is an initiative by First Lady DeSantis which supports Veterans and their families through assistance with mental health needs, employment, healthcare, and many more opportunities.

For further information on Hope Florida, click here.

Thank you to all Veterans who served our great nation and the active duty service members continuing to serve. May God bless you and your families and keep you safe as you protect our country.

I consider it a great honor to represent District 19. Please share this link with your friends and family so they too, can sign up for the Mayfield Minute.

If you or someone you know needs my assistance, please do not hesitate to contact my office. My staff and I are here to serve you!

Bill Action by Governor DeSantis

Since the close of the 2024 Legislation Session, Governor DeSantis has signed 141 bills into law, vetoed two bills, 48 remain pending his action, and 126 have not yet been sent for his consideration.

Upon receipt of a bill, the Governor has seven days to sign, veto, or take no action at which point the bill will automatically become law.

Bills signed by Governor DeSantis last week include:

CS/CS/SB 1084- Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

HB 7071- Foreign Investments by the State Board of Administration

CS/CS/CS/HB 989- Chief Financial Officer

SB 7026- Public Records/Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

CS/CS/HB 939- Consumer Protection

CS/HB 1291- Educator Preparation Programs

Bills received and pending consideration include:

CS/CS/HB 1331- Commodities Produced by Forced Labor

CS/CS/HB 1645- Energy Resources

CS/CS/CS/HB 1065 – Substance Abuse Treatment

CS/CS/HB 935 – Health Care Services

CS/CS/CS/HB 1083 – Permanency for Children

CS/HB 1561 – Office Surgeries

HB 7089 – Transparency in Health and Human Services

CS/CS/HB 1557 – Department of Environmental Protection

CS/HB 1291 – Preparation Programs

CS/HB 1361 – Education

CS/CS/HB 437 – Limitation Areas

CS/CS/HB 1503 – Property Insurance Corporation

CS/CS/HB 1611 – Insurance

CS/CS/HB 1403 – School Choice

CS/CS/HB 1335 –Department of Business and Professional Regulation

CS/HB 215 – Retention Groups

CS/SB 168 – Cytomegalovirus Screenings

CS/SB 186 – Supranuclear Palsy and Other Neurodegenerative Diseases Policy Committee

CS/SB 998 – Sale of Liquefied Petroleum Gas

SB 364 – Public Service Commission Rules

CS/SB 366 – Civil Penalties Under the Gas Safety Law of 1967

CS/CS/SB 532 – Securities

CS/SB 7002 – Deregulation of Public Schools

CS/SB 7004 –Education

CS/CS/CS/SB 764-– Retention of Sexual Offense Evidence

CS/SB 7032- Education

CS/CS/SB 1380- Services for Persons with Disabilities and the Transportation Disadvantaged

CS/CS/CS/HB 287- Transportation

CS/CS/HB 1389 – Digital Voyeurism

CS/SB 1616 – Electronic Access to Official Records

CS/CS/SB 804 – Gaming Licenses and Permits

If you have an interest or concern regarding any of the above bills, you can reach out to the Governor's office directly here or please contact my office at 321-409-2025.

Statewide Update

Governor DeSantis Announces Highest Funding in Florida's History for Services Supporting the Autism Community

In a press conference last week, Governor DeSantis announced record high investments in services for those with developmental disabilities. With over $2.2 billion allocated to the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) for services through the [iBudget] waiver, this funding represents the highest level of support in Florida's history for those with Autism and other developmental disabilities. The [iBudget] waiver ensures access to the services needed for medical, behavioral, therapeutic, or social needs.

Governor DeSantis addressed the importance of ensuring that every Floridian has access to high-quality services, emphasizing the state's partnership with institutions like the Els Center of Excellence. The Els Center offers an environment tailored to meeting the needs of children with Autism, exemplifying Florida's dedication to meeting the diverse needs of its residents.

Additionally, Governor DeSantis announced that participation in Florida's Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities enrollment had seen significant growth to nearly 100,000 students. This scholarship offers families access to additional education options, ensuring that students with unique abilities have the educational options they need to thrive.

To learn more about the mission of the ELS Center of Excellence, click here.

Florida Attorney General Moody Sues Biden Administration

Attorney General Ashley Moody announced the state's lawsuit against the Biden Administration over new Title IX regulations. Title IX, enacted in 1972 as part of the Education amendments, was originally intended to prohibit sex discrimination in educational institutions that receive federal funding. While Title IX was intended to address disparities in access to education, funding, and resources between males and females, the Biden Administration is now attempting to expand its regulations.

Florida joins seven other states in pursuing a case against the Biden Administration for attempting to expand Title IX's definition of sex to include sexual orientation and gender identity. Additionally, advocacy groups including Parents Defending Education, Speech First Inc, Independent Women's Law Center, and the Independent Women's Network have joined Florida in the fight against the Biden Administration.

Attorney General Moody stated, " We will fight very strongly against this rule, just to ensure this does what Congress intended it to do, and that is to provide opportunities to everyone and especially protect the security and fairness for our biological females."

For more information on the lawsuit, click here.

Summer Savings: Freedom Summer Sales Tax Holiday Signed into Budget

As Floridians prepare for summer, Governor DeSantis revealed a new sales tax holiday which will be included in the budget for the Fiscal Year 2024-2025. This sales tax holiday will occur throughout the month of July and includes a wide variety of recreational items and events that will be exempt from taxation, including fishing supplies, outdoor recreational equipment, admissions to state parks, museum tickets, and more.

This holiday is designed to allow Floridians to enjoy summer activities without worrying about financial burdens.

Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Shawn Hamilton, stated " I encourage all of Florida's residents and visitors to take advantage of these extra savings and discover the unique experiences Florida has to offer."

In addition to the Summer Sales Tax Holiday, Governor DeSantis announced free admission to all Florida State Parks for Memorial Day weekend.

Find the full press conference here.

Legislation Signed to Protect Florida from Ideological Imposition

Governor DeSantis has signed legislation to safeguard educators, employees, and consumers against being forced to adopt/teach ideologies or political behavior. HB 1291 and HB 989 signifies the Florida legislature's commitment to preserving individual freedoms and maintaining educational integrity.

HB 291 focuses on safeguarding educational environments from being forced to adopt certain ideologies or political behaviors. By prohibiting identity politics and promoting unbiased teaching methods, this bill upholds academic integrity and intellectual freedoms across the state.

HB 989 addresses concerns regarding unwarranted account cancellations and restrictions by financial institutions operating in Florida. The bill opens avenues for community-based credit unions to hold public funds and permits the Chief Financial Officer to have consumer liaison for dealing with the IRS.

By supporting these bills, Governor DeSantis ensures that Florida affirms its commitment to individual freedoms and educational excellence.

To read more about these bills, click here.

Honoring Florida's Heroes: A Tribute to Courage

Last month, the 2nd Annual Florida's Heroes Reception was held at the Governor's Residence, where heroes from across the state were recognized and celebrated for their acts of bravery. Hosted by Governor DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis, the reception brought together 75 remarkable individuals whose selfless contributions have made a profound impact on their community.

These heroes are valued members of our communities including veterans, police officers, doctors, first responders, parents, and more. During the ceremony, each hero's story was honored showing the profound impact of their acts of courage and sacrifice.

Governor DeSantis stated, "In Florida, we want to recognize and extoll the virtues of selflessness and service, and these individuals embodied those virtues through their actions and achievements."

He added that these heroes' dedication to selfless service strengthens Florida's communities. We extend our deepest gratitude to these individuals for their courage and commitment to creating a positive difference in the lives of others.

Learn more about their inspiring stories here.

Constituent of the Week

Diane Luensmann, Vice President, Canaveral Port Authority

This week, we proudly recognize Diane Luensmann as our Constituent of the Week and honor her for her recent recognition as the Maritime Person of the Year for 2024.

Ms. Luensmann was born in Massachusetts and moved to Brevard County in 2017. She attended Worcester State College earning a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Education. Ms. Luensmann completed her Master's of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies in 2017 from the U.S. Naval War College.

She worked for the U.S. House of Representatives nearly seven years (2009 to 2015) in various positions serving as Director of Communications for Congressman Nick Rahall and as Deputy Chief of Staff for Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett.

From 2015 to 2017, Ms. Luensmann served as the Maritime Policy Director for the American Maritime Congress in Washington, DC.

In 2017, She began working with Canaveral Port Authority, first as a Senior Director of Government and Strategic Communications, then as Vice President of Government and Strategic Communications,

Ms. Luensmann has demonstrated exemplary leadership and dedication since joining the Port Canaveral. Her relentless advocacy for the mission and interests locally, statewide, and on the national stage has earned her widespread admiration and respect within the maritime community.

With a distinguished career spanning federal and state government roles, as well as significant experience in the private sector, Ms. Luensmann brings a wealth of expertise to her position. Her strategic insights and proactive approach have been instrumental in driving policy improvements and fostering partnerships that benefit not only Port Canaveral but also the broader maritime industry.

Ms. Luensmann recent recognition as Maritime Person of the Year by the Propeller Club of Port Canaveral is a testament to her outstanding contributions and leadership. Her visionary initiatives, such as advocating for federal legislation to enhance maritime security and strengthening emergency response protocols, highlight her unwavering commitment to advancing the industry's interests.

Beyond her professional achievements, Ms. Luensmann is a passionate advocate for maritime education, playing a key role in providing valuable training and internship opportunities for aspiring industry professionals.

As we celebrate Ms. Luensmann's well-deserved honor, we also commend her for her dedication, vision, and tireless efforts in shaping the future of the maritime sector.

Congratulations, Ms. Luensmann and thank you for your invaluable contributions to Port Canaveral, the maritime community, and District 19 at large.

District Highlights

FWC Leads Underwater Debris Removal Operation

This week the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) lead a significant underwater debris removal over a two-day operation.

Divers from FWC, Melbourne Police Department, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Seminole County Sheriff's Office, St. Johns Sheriff's Office, and Brevard County Ocean Rescue joined forces to complete the cleanup.

They were successful in removing over 1,500 pounds of debris from Sebastian Inlet in Melbourne. The debris removed from the Inlet included fishing lines, lures, lead weights, and even a section of a sunken vessel.

This crucial initiative keeps our waterways clean and protects are marine life from harmful debris. Thank you to FWC and all participating agencies for preserving our natural resources and keeping our waterways clean and beautiful.

Cape Canaveral Space Station Prepares to Send Astronauts to ISS

NASA astronauts, Barry Willmore and Suni Williams, prepare to board the first crewed mission of Boeing's Starliner Spacecraft. Although the Spacecraft has completed an orbital test flight, this will be the first manned mission by a crew on the Boeing Starliner Spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS).

The launch will take place Monday, May 6th at the Cape Canaveral Space Station. Following the launch, the astronauts will make more than a 27 hour journey to the ISS. The main objective of the mission is to ensure that the Starliner Spacecraft has the ability to launch, connect to the ISS, and land home at successfully.

This mission marks a significant milestone in NASA's Commercial Crew Program, an initiative aimed at collaborating with American Aerospace companies to develop spacecraft and rockets used to transport astronauts and technology from the US.

Read more about the mission here.

Drone Drops Millions of Clams into the Indian River Lagoon

Last week, Coastal Conservation Association of Florida (CCA Florida) marked a significant millstone in its billion-clam initiative with the drone assisted deployment of millions of clams into the Indian River Lagoon. This initiative is aimed at restoring the lagoon's ecosystem by the distribution of clams. The drone successfully dropped around three to six million clams into the IRL.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission partnered with CCA Florida, Wiggins Outdoors, and the University of Florida Whitney Lab to plant the clams in the Lagoon, just south of Melbourne Beach near Hog Point. This initiative not only builds the marine ecosystem but showcases the power of technology in advancing conservation efforts.

"We are finding clams where there haven't been clams in five years, so we know the project is working," stated Capt. Wiggins with Wiggins Outdoors.

For more information on the Indian River Clam Project, click here.

Upcoming Events

Celebrating Mother's Day in Brevard County

As we look forward to Mother's Day next Sunday, there are many upcoming events happening around Brevard County to celebrate Moms.

Below is a list of local events:

Mother's Day Bouquet Workshop at The Avenue Viera (2261 Town Center Avenue) in Melbourne on Saturday, May 11th from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Mother's Day Extravaganza at Ballard Park (924 Thomas Barbour Drive) in Melbourne on Saturday, May 11th beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Mommy & Me Royal Tea Party at McLarty Park Community Center (790 Barton Boulevard) in Rockledge on Saturday May 11th from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Mother's Day Event in the Rockledge Gardens (2153 US Highway 1) in Rockledge on Sunday, May 12th from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

10th Annual Mother's Day Banquet and Concert at Melbourne Auditorium (1699 Melody Lane) in Melbourne on Sunday, May 12th at 5:00 p.m.

For more Mother's Day events and deals, click here.

Summer Camp Registration Begins Now

Brevard Public Schools is offering summer camps for Elementary and Secondary students throughout the month of June.

Students are encouraged to participate in various summer programs, including sports camp, coding, creative writing, theatre, dance, band, and more. Learn more about the summer programs offered by Brevard Public Schools here.

In addition, there are various other organizations offering summer activities including day camps, overnight camps, and specialty camps offered in Brevard County for children and young adults.

To find a complete list of summer camps in Brevard County, click here.

16th Annual Mayors Breakfast

The 16th Annual Mayors Breakfast is set to take place on Friday, May 17th, from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Space Coast Convention Center (301 Tucker Lane). Fifteen Mayors representing cities and towns across Brevard County will be present to provide updates on development within their respective municipalities. Sheriff Wayne Ivey will serve as emcee at the event.

For more information on the event, click here.

Downtown Melbourne Farmers Market at Riverview Park

Every Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Riverview Park in Downtown Melbourne hosts its weekly farmer's market. The Farmers Market host a range of vendors ranging from food trucks to handmade items, local artists, and more. Featuring local vendors from Brevard County for nearly a decade, this market is cherished by the community.

The Farmer's Market is especially known for featuring traditional bakery items, homemade jams, spices, and locally grown produce. From the Farmers Market to the peaceful river views, it is a great way to spend your Saturday morning.

For more information about the Farmers Market, click here.