Dear Friends,

Week Five of the 2025 Legislative Session was a dynamic and purpose-driven chapter in our ongoing work to shape a stronger, safer, and more vibrant Florida.

This week, I proudly presented HB 1237: Human Trafficking Awareness—legislation that will directly impact the safety of our students by equipping schools with the tools and training necessary to prevent human trafficking. This bill is more than policy—it's a powerful step toward protecting children, empowering educators, and sending a clear message that Florida is serious about ending exploitation.

Another bill that I presented was HB 579: Local Government Land Development in the Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee. This legislation requires counties and municipalities to provide specified minimum information for certain zoning applications and revises the timeframes for processing development permits or orders. It also establishes refund rules if the county or municipality fails to meet these timeframes. It's important to me that we hold our counties and cities responsible and allow our communities to grow and thrive in a timely manner.

Beyond the chamber, I continued building momentum through strategic partnerships and community engagement. I met with Teach Florida to advance impactful education reform, collaborated with the St. Lucie County Team on key regional initiatives, and welcomed representatives from the Camp Blanding Museum to spotlight the critical importance of honoring and preserving Florida's military legacy.

During Corrections Day, I had the privilege of connecting with professionals on the front lines of public safety and was deeply inspired by an emotional support service dog whose work is transforming lives within the corrections system—a powerful reminder of the human heart behind every policy.

As we move forward, I remain deeply committed to delivering meaningful, results-driven leadership that uplifts communities, protects families, and leaves a lasting legacy for generations of Floridians. Your support fuels this mission, and together, we are doing great things.

I always enjoy the opportunity and privilege of meeting with our local partners and having them visit the Capitol for Treasure Coast Week. I appreciate them making the trip to Tallahassee!

It was wonderful to meet the best service dog offering emotional support during Corrections Day! These specially trained animals are essential in helping both officers and inmates, enhancing mental health and lowering stress levels in correctional settings.

This week, I had the opportunity to present HB 1237, a bill focused on equipping Florida's public schools with the necessary tools to combat human trafficking. The bill requires schools to designate an administrator to provide annual training for staff, ensure acknowledgement of the training, and submit curriculum for approval by the Department of Education. By increasing awareness and prevention efforts, this legislation aims to protect students and empower educators to recognize the signs of human trafficking. 

Connecting with Teach Florida to discuss the importance of educational advocacy and policy is always a pleasure. I'm excited to support initiatives that empower students and strengthen our education system!

History is one of my favorite topics, so having the opportunity to explore the Camp Blanding Museum was truly fascinating! The presentation offered a deep dive into our nation's rich military heritage and the powerful stories that have shaped our history.

A great discussion took place with those in the Page and Messenger Program! They introduced themselves and engaged in a thoughtful Q&A session. It's always inspiring to connect with and exchange ideas with the bright minds shaping our future. We even had our local page, Kendall, visiting the Capitol this week!

We also had a bright young student from the local area to volunteer and job shadow for his school project. It was great hosting Liam and sharing the day and Capitol with him!

Rep. Dana Trabulsy and I had the opportunity to speak in the Historic Capitol with a group of local folks from the Treasure Coast. Every session, there is a designed week for "Treasure Coast Days," and we get the opportunity to share this experience with our local leaders and constituents. If you've never come before, I encourage you to look into joining us next year for Treasure Coast Days!

Presenting HB 579 - Local Government Land Development in the Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee was a privilege. I'm very eager about this bill and the positive impact it could have on our community.

My Legislation for the 2025 Legislative Session:

Curious about what bills I’m running this legislative session? Click here to follow along!

HB 433 - Administrative Procedures (Now in State Affairs Committee)

• Government Operations Subcommittee
• Budget Committee
• State Affairs Committee

HB 843 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Trust Funds (Now in Budget Committee)

• Agriculture & Natural Resources Budget Subcommittee
• Natural Resources & Disasters Subcommittee
• Budget Committee

HB 893 - Construction Liens and Bonds (First Reading)

• Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee
• Industries & Professional Activities Subcommittee
• Judiciary Committee

HB 919 - Nursing Education Programs (Now in Health & Human Services Committee)

• Health Professions & Programs Subcommittee
• Careers & Workforce Subcommittee
• Health & Human Services Committee

HB 921 - Required Instruction in Cursive Writing (04/02/25 S Received)

• Student Academic Success Subcommittee
• Education & Employment Committee

HB 973 - Special Districts (Added to Agriculture & Natural Resources Budget Subcommittee agenda)

• Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee
• Agriculture & Natural Resources Budget Subcommittee
• State Affairs Committee

HB 1237 - Human Trafficking Awareness (Now in Education & Employment Committee)

• Education Administration Subcommittee
• Education & Employment Committee

HB 1339 - Assessment of Property Used for Residential Purposes (Now in Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee)

• Ways & Means Committee
• Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee
• State Affairs Committee

HB 6013 - Bump-fire Stocks (First Reading)

• Criminal Justice Subcommittee
• Judiciary Committee

As we are now over halfway through the legislative session, we are excited about all that we will accomplish for our state and district in these next few weeks. Thank you for your continued support and faith in my leadership in Tallahassee! I look forward to sharing with you again soon.

Sincerely,

Rep. Toby Overdorf