Welcome back everyone for the 2016 Legislative Session! Last night, AIF members, lobbyists and corporate sponsors greeted legislators, Governor Rick Scott, members of the Florida Cabinet and guests at our annual Legislative Reception held at AIF Headquarters in downtown Tallahassee.

With the 2016 Regular Session beginning today, AIF stands ready to fight for those issues relevant to our members and continue to work to create a business-friendly climate to benefit our state.

This Session, we will focus our efforts on passing a comprehensive statewide water package to protect Florida’s waters, permanently removing the sales tax on manufacturing machinery and equipment, identifying the best practices for making Florida a leader in renewable and sustainable energy production, increasing accessibility and affordability of quality health care for Florida residents, and supporting the Governor’s $79.3 billion budget proposal for the 2016-2017 fiscal year, to name a few.

The Session opening ceremonies began this morning with both chambers gathering to hear the Governors State of the State address. Here is a press release from our President and CEO, Tom Feeney, applauding Governor Scotts address:

AIF Statement on Governor Scott’s State of the State Address

Tallahassee, Fla. – The Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) today released the following statement attributed to its President & CEO Tom Feeney regarding Governor Rick Scott’s 2016 State of the State address.

“AIF applauds Governor Scott on his State of the State address, and congratulates him on all he has been able to accomplish for the great State of Florida in terms of fostering a business-friendly environment.  

“Growing our job base, cutting taxes, decreasing red tape and diversifying our economy are just some of the accomplishments that have led to Florida being one of the best places in the nation to do business.

“We look forward to continuing to work together toward growing business in Florida in 2016.” 
For more information on AIF, please visit AIF.com and follow @VoiceofFLBiz.

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Included is the first installment of our Daily Brief for the 2016 Legislative Session.  We will continue to send updates and provide you with the latest information from the Capitol though our Daily Briefs and Weekly Updates.