HB 857 – Assault or Battery on a Utility Worker

On Tuesday, April 8, HB 857 by Representative Jennifer Kincart-Jonsson (R-Lakeland) was heard by the House Judiciary Committee and was reported favorably with 19 yeas and 0 nays. AIF stood in support of this legislation.

This bill increases penalties against individuals who commit acts of violence against utility workers while working on critical infrastructure. The bill rephrases statutory definitions of “utility workers” that require such individuals to wear appropriate gear that clearly identifies them as an employee of a utility provider.

HB 857 will now go to the House Floor for consideration.

AIF supports legislation that stiffens criminal penalties against those who commit acts of violence against utility workers working on Florida’s critical infrastructure.

 

SB 832 – Former Phosphate Mining Lanes

On Tuesday, April 8, SB 832 by Senator Danny Burgess (R-Zephyrhills) was heard by the Senate Rules Committee and was reported favorably with 24 yeas and 0 nays. AIF stood in support of this legislation.

Phosphate mining is a critical industry in Florida and is essential to providing sufficient fertilizers and agrichemicals for agricultural operations around the globe. SB 832 adds a new, narrow defense against causes of action that come from naturally occurring elements. This ensures that phosphate mining companies that meet all of their environmental permitting duties aren’t held liable for elements that are already in the land.

SB 832 will now go to the Senate Floor for consideration.

AIF supports legislation that simplifies regulatory patchwork and provides protections against frivolous litigation allowing businesses to buy, sell, and develop land without the threat of unnecessary lawsuits while following the law.