Gov. Ron DeSantis, House Speaker José Oliva, and Senate President Bill Galvano have set the tone for the 2019 Legislative Session.
DeSantis, during his State of the State Address at the start of Session, reiterated his “bold” approach to his first two months in office. He’s put forth the largest spending plan in Florida’s history and recommended numerous policy changes for lawmakers to consider this year.
His speech asked for some follow-through from the House and the Senate:
“Be bold in championing economic opportunity, be bold in protecting Florida’s environment, be bold in improving education, be bold in defending the safety of our communities, be bold because while perfection is not attainable, if we aim high we can achieve excellence.” - Gov. Ron DeSantis
Galvano, who helms the ‘upper chamber,’ offered a broad approach to the 60-day lawmaking process during opening remarks delivered last Tuesday. He urged collaboration and thoughtfulness while refraining from diving too deep into specifics.
“If we as a Senate do not feel a bill is right, or ready, let us be willing to step back, rethink, and regroup,” Galvano said. “Most importantly, if necessary, let us have the discipline to be willing to walk away."
Oliva, in contrast, spoke to chamber colleagues primarily about sweeping health care reforms — ideas that are expected to define his tenure in the House.
“Floridians are depending on us to remedy this crisis,” Oliva said. “That is why this year we will pass comprehensive healthcare reform. No single policy will be the solution. A truly comprehensive approach is what is required.”