The 2019 Legislative Session is over.
We passed legislation updating DNA warrants (SB 920), texting while driving (HB 107), survivor death benefits (SB 7098), and an omnibus criminal justice reform package (HB 7125 – there is much to unpack in this one so expect a separate email outlining the legislation next week).
We got the necessary study completed to provide an estimation for the financial impact that ending the COLA suspension for Special Risk Class members hired before July 1, 2011 will have on the Florida Retirement System. The cost is $113 million per year.
We were able to secure raises for some of our bargaining unit members, but not all. The Legislature made it clear that providing equitable pay raises to all of our law enforcement and correctional officers was not a priority this year.
The next session begins earlier (January 2020) which means interim committees start much sooner. The earlier start will put us right back where we left off on the COLA and pay raises. Our team and PBA elected leadership will keep working on those issues throughout the summer.
We intend to get Governor DeSantis more involved on these issues, too.
I thank everyone who came up to Tallahassee this year to lobby with us. Your support and guidance is what our organization thrives on.
Until next time, please stay safe and may God bless you.
Matt Puckett
Executive Director
matt@flpba.org
