2008 Legislature roundup
Mar 5, 2008
Tallahassee Democrat--Mar. 5, 2008
FLORIDA CAPITAL BUREAU
The Florida Legislature is in session through May 2. The key issues yesterday and what’s coming up:
TOPIC: SESSION CONVENES
WHAT HAPPENED: Senate President Ken Pruitt charted a moderate agenda. House Speaker Marco Rubio was more aggressive, calling for further and deep property tax cuts.
WHAT’S NEXT: The parrying begins between chambers that must agree for anything to pass.
TOPIC: STATE OF THE STATE
WHAT HAPPENED: Gov. Charlie Crist touted his own optimism and a wish for continued bipartisanship in his second year as the People’s Governor.
WHAT’S NEXT: It’s an election year. Early indications show a more contentious, partisan session.
TOPIC: BOARD OF GOVERNORS
WHAT HAPPENED: Pruitt indicated his support for a proposal to ask voters to gut the Board of Governors and return to an elected education commissioner. The proposal would also give the Legislature the uncontested right to set tuition at the state’s universities.
WHAT’S NEXT: A senate committee hears the resolution today. Quick action is expected.
TOPIC: GREEN ENERGY
WHAT HAPPENED: The Public Service Commission approved expanded "net metering," the means for customers to sell renewable energy, from sources such as solar panels, back to utility companies.
WHAT’S NEXT: Farmers burning methane gas from cattle waste to take advantage of the program?