HB 95- Relating to Public-Private Partnerships
On Thursday, February 4th, HB 95, relating to Public-Private Partnerships, by Rep. Greg Steube (R-Sarasota) was heard in the House State Affairs Committee and was reported favorably by a vote of 14 yeas and 1 nay. AIF’s Senior Vice President of State and Federal Affairs, Brewster Bevis, stood in support of this bill.

As previously reported, HB 95 is a top priority for AIF and pertains to construction and infrastructure projects.  HB 95 seeks to clarify that P3s are an alternative process for communities to expand, through partnerships with the private sector, their ability to meet current and future infrastructure needs.  HB 95 also provides flexibility for local governments on procurement time-lines as well as allowing local governments to collect processing fees at the time of application.  The bill removes the Partnership for Public Facilities and Infrastructure Guidelines Task Force from statute as recommendations from the task force are incorporated in the bill.  

AIF has strongly supported Florida’s P3 process, having worked over the last year to provide options and flexibility to both the public and private sector.  As Florida continues see almost 1000 people per day moving into the state, P3s will be a critical component to solving infrastructure needs for years to come.

HB 95 will now go to the House floor for consideration.

AIF strongly supports utilization of the private sector in helping to solve public construction needs. Government’s role is critical in securing and advancing our state’s infrastructure.