Dear Friends,

Week 8 of the 2025 Legislative Session was both productive and deeply meaningful as I continue working hard to advance policy, engage with stakeholders, and honor the individuals who make Florida stronger every day.

This week, I was proud to present two impactful pieces of legislation on the House floor:

• CS/HB 1237 - Human Trafficking Awareness, which ensures that public school employees are adequately trained to identify potential victims of human trafficking.

• CS/HB 919 – Nursing Education Programs, which strengthens Florida's healthcare workforce by expanding access to quality nursing education.

In addition to legislative work, I took time to honor Florida's everyday heroes. I participated in the 2025 Fire Service Awards and Ringing of the Bell Ceremony, a moving tribute to our fire and emergency service professionals who risk their lives to keep others safe. I also proudly recognized Senator Bob Graham Day, celebrating a legacy of service that continues to inspire generations of public leaders.

As a strong supporter of conservation, I joined efforts to commemorate Florida Wildlife Corridor Day, reaffirming the importance of preserving our natural resources for future generations.

Each week of session brings new challenges and opportunities, and I'm grateful for the trust you've placed in me to represent our community. I remain dedicated to delivering meaningful results and keeping you informed every step of the way.

Thank you for your continued support.

I also encourage you to watch this video of me presenting HB 433 - Administrative Procedures: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtqRwFjga1Q

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Late Friday, I had the opportunity to assist in presenting HB 1467 on gambling. Although this is not my bill, I was proud to step in and support Representative Anderson and Representative Snyder in delivering the bill.

Sponsoring Chief Joseph Tumminelli as the Law Enforcement Officer of the Day was an incredible privilege. It was a true honor to recognize his outstanding service and leadership. I'm deeply grateful for the dedication, bravery, and sacrifice shown by Chief Tumminelli and all of our law enforcement officers. Their commitment to protecting our communities is invaluable, and I'm proud to stand in support of the men and women who work tirelessly to keep us safe. Thank you for your service!

It was a pleasure to attend the 2025 Fire Service Awards and the Bell Ringing Ceremony organized by the Department of Financial Services. This event honors Florida's devoted fire and emergency service workers. It was uplifting to see them recognized for their courage, dedication, and hard work in protecting our communities. These heroes deserve our utmost appreciation!

I had the wonderful opportunity to present CS/CS/HB 579 – Land Use and Development in the Commerce Committee. This key piece of legislation is designed to enhance Florida's land use and development processes, mandating that counties and municipalities adhere to clear standards for zoning applications and promoting transparency and efficiency. It also tackles critical issues surrounding educational concurrency fees, ensuring school districts cannot impose alternative fees that don't meet established criteria.

I was proud to present CS/HB 919 – Nursing Education Programs, a crucial piece of legislation aimed at improving the approval and oversight of nursing education programs in Florida. This bill revises application requirements for nursing program approval, provides the Board of Nursing with the authority to revoke approval if necessary, and strengthens the reporting obligations for program directors. 

Celebrating our state's natural beauty during Florida Wildlife Corridor Day at the Capitol was a reminder of the importance of preserving our state's unique ecosystems. It was inspiring to join fellow advocates, wildlife experts, and conservationists as we highlighted the vital work being done to protect and expand Florida's wildlife corridors. These efforts are essential for safeguarding the future of our natural landscapes and the wildlife that depend on them. Let's continue to prioritize conservation to keep Florida's natural beauty thriving for generations to come.

We honored a Florida legend with Sen. Bob Graham Day, celebrating the legacy of Senator Bob Graham, whose dedication to Florida's future left an indelible mark on our state. His service and leadership continue to inspire us all to strive for a brighter, more sustainable future. It was a privilege to recognize his extraordinary contributions to public service and to reflect on the lasting impact he will have on both Florida and the rest of the nation.

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

HB 433 - Administrative Procedures

(Added to Second Reading Calendar)

• Government Operations Subcommittee
• Budget Committee
• State Affairs Committee

HB 843 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Trust Funds

(Added to Second Reading Calendar)

• 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

(04/23/25 S Received)

• 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

(Now in State Affairs Committee)

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

HB 1237 - Human Trafficking Awareness

(04/24/25 S Received)

• Education Administration Subcommittee
• Education & Employment Committee

HB 1339 - Assessment of Property Used for Residential Purposes

(Now in State Affairs Committee)

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

HB 6013 - Bump-fire Stocks

(First Reading)

• Criminal Justice Subcommittee
• Judiciary Committee

Heather from our District Office had the honor of attending Recruit Graduation – Class #44. We're thrilled to celebrate this important milestone as Martin County's newest firefighters complete their intensive training with incredible skill, dedication, and a deep commitment to public service. Congratulations, Class 44!

On Thursday, April 17, Heather also visited Place of Hope's Stuart location to celebrate the launch of new cottages that will provide vital support for single moms in our community. This is a meaningful step toward empowering families and building brighter futures!

At our office, constituent service is at the heart of everything we do—and this recent success story is a perfect example.

A few months ago, a local resident reached out for help with a serious safety concern. For more than three years, he had been trying—unsuccessfully—to get multiple unsafe communication poles removed from his property. These poles, owned by both the power company and cable providers, posed a major risk, especially with the potential for severe weather.

Once our office got involved, our team worked directly with Florida Power & Light (FPL) to coordinate a solution. Thanks to persistent follow-up and collaboration, the issue that had dragged on for years was finally resolved within just a few months.

This outcome not only removed a potential hazard from the constituent's yard—it also brought peace of mind and a safer environment for his family. We're proud to have played a role in moving this issue forward and grateful for the opportunity to support our community in meaningful ways.

If you or someone you know needs help navigating similar issues, please don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help

As my colleagues and I continue our work in Tallahassee, we are excited about all that we will accomplish in the upcoming days. Thank you for your continued support and faith in my leadership! I look forward to sharing with you again soon.

Sincerely,

Rep. Toby Overdorf

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