May 27, 2014

Tallahassee, Fla. – The Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) today released its “2014 Voting Records” report, which allows employers to gauge how Florida legislators are casting votes on bills that affect their businesses.

For the last 39 years, AIF has published its Voting Records – the definitive legislative scorecard for the business community, calculating more than 197,120 votes on 1,779 bills with 778 legislators. 

“We’re pleased to announce that the business community faired well during the 2014 Legislative Session according to our 2014 Voting Records that indicate the Florida Senate voted in favor of the business community 86 percent of the time, while the Florida House of Representatives voted favorably 89 percent of the time,” said AIF President & CEO Tom Feeney.  “We are also pleased to report that Senate and House Democrats also increased their favorable voting records, which will undoubtedly allow for greater growth and will spur our economy in the great State of Florida.”

“AIF remains committed to working with our policymakers to continue to make Florida a more attractive place to do business, and we’re happy with this year’s progress in terms of improving Florida’s business and legal climate,” said Feeney.  “From a large state budget surplus to major tax credits and many business-friendly bills passing this session, the future for Florida businesses and families in Florida is looking bright.  It takes a village with a strong voice, and we’re excited to continue to be a leader for our business community and its initiatives before the Florida Legislature.”

“The pro-business successes this session couldn’t have been made possible without the efforts made by the Governor and the Florida Legislature,” said AIF Senior Vice President of State and Federal Affairs Brewster Bevis.  “AIF and our members are grateful for their hard work and would like to recognize the 19 elected officials outlined in our report who had a 100 percent voting record with the business community.  Thank you for making Florida a stronger place for our employers and their employees.”

According to the 2014 Voting Records, a total of 10 Senators and 68 Representatives voted in favor of AIF and the business community 90 percent of the time or more.  An electronic version can be found here.

In addition to the Voting Records, AIF will be announcing its 2014 Champion for Business Awards, which recognizes elected officials who have proven to be strong and forceful advocates for Florida business.