EMPLOYER Fall 2006 • Vol. 6, No. 3

What’s Inside

Common Sense Time for Final Choices 20062006 by Barney T. Bishop III

2006 Election Season Brings About Many Changes by Leslie Dughi ElectionsElections ’s Race Candidates Provide Their stance on Top Business Issues SpecialSpecial State Races A Look at the Candidates

Proposed Constitutional EditionEdition Amendments

Farewell by Liz Hirst A publication of ssociated Industries of Service Corporation CommonSense

Time for Final Choices By Barney T. Bishop III

he 2006 election season is about to come trial lawyer-candidate Walter “Skip” to a close, and the private enterprise Campbell. The stark contrasts in this race are Tsystem that has been the foundation of unavoidable. Central Florida versus South America since our beginning over 225 years Florida. Button down versus flamboyant. ago is going to once again survive and Consumer advocate versus corporate basher. prosper. This is an important race because these two For the first time in the last four decades, candidates bring starkly different attributes and perhaps for the first time ever, AIFSC to the table. McCollum has proven to be a endorsed statewide candidates for public valuable leader during his time in Congress office. This was not an easy step to take, (as and has proven his understanding of how evidenced by the fact so few business groups important a prosperous business climate is to have done so), and I am so proud that our our citizens. organization took this important step. In fact, Sen. Campbell is one of the nicest indi- EMPLOYER you can go to our website at www.aif.com viduals in the legislature and I’ve known him and select the “Endorsement” button on the for many years. Even more so, he is compe- Published by right side and you can see who AIFSC and tent. The problem is his ideology. Just as an Associated Industries affiliated companies endorsed in the state- example, last year he advocated a bill that of Florida Service wide races and in the state Senate and House would MANDATE health insurance for large Corporation to inform readers about issues races. employers! It would take a much larger pertinent to Florida’s Most people expect that within a few column then this to tell you how bad that business community. days and Jeff Kottkamp are would be for Florida employers. The combi- © 2006. All rights going to be elected as the next Governor and nation of his trial lawyer background and the reserved. Lt. Governor of Florida. This is important anti-business bills he has pushed in the PUBLISHER legislature, make the prospect of him becoming Barney T. Bishop III because these two gentlemen offer the best hope for our collective future. They have AG one of great concern to our business ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Stephen B. Trickey both served in the in their community. career and collectively boast an average of Hopefully, this edition of Employer Advocate EDITOR Jacquelyn Horkan 90% on our voting records. So, take comfort will be useful in helping you gather informa- in the fact that we have candidates on the tion on all the statewide candidates. Remem- DESIGNER J. Gregory Vowell GOP team that understand our issues and ber, above all else go and cast your vote on have proven their understanding of the election day, nothing is more important than EDITORIAL OFFICES 516 North Adams St. value of the private enterprise system that! Post Office Box 784 consistently. Tallahassee, FL I’ve felt for some time that the sleeper race Barney T. Bishop III is President & CEO of 32302-0784 this cycle is the under-publicized race for Associated Industries of Florida Phone: (850) 224-7173 Fax: (850) 224-6532 Attorney General: GOP lawyer-candidate Bill and affiliated companies E-mail: [email protected] McCollum versus Democrat personal injury (e-mail: [email protected]).

2 EmployerAdvocateFall2006 Overview

Chief Financial Officer. The key race, is who The 2007 2006 Election will take over the Governor’s mansion. Legislature Governor When the 2007 With Attorney General Charlie Crist’s (R- Legislative Session Season Brings convenes on March 6, Tampa) win over Chief Financial Officer (R-Miami) for the Republican 2007, there will be a About Many nomination, the Republican party enters the large number of new general election with a moderate candidate members who have not held legislative who will most likely have crossover appeal office and will make Changes with Democrats and Independents. With the important policy primary election behind them, all Republi- decisions for Florida. By Leslie Dughi cans have rallied around Crist, including This high number of Gallagher and the conservative voting block. “freshman” members he 2006 election cycle will bring major In the last reporting period, Crist raised just is the continuing result changes to Florida’s political environ- over $1.2 million for a total of $17.5 million of the eight-year term Tment which is a result of several factors. (another $3 million in in-kind contributions). limits Florida voters In 1992, Floridians approved the “Eight is Crist’s choice for Lt. Governor, Rep. Jeff approved in 1992. Enough” constitutional amendment which Kottkamp (R-Cape Coral) had a 93% AIF Overall, seven of the changed the political environment forever. voting record during the last session. He has 40 Senators and 33 of This initiative limited members of the supported many important issues facing the the 120 House as well as Florida state legislators to serving business community during his time in the members will be no more than eight years in the same seat. legislature. Freshmen. The result is the entire Cabinet is up for On the Democratic side, Congressman Jim election in 2006 . Davis (D-Tampa) bested Sen. Rod Smith (D- Following the General The Democrats believe this election holds a Gainesville) for that party’s nomination. Election, the Legisla- unique opportunity to regain some of their Smith has endorsed Davis for the general ture will hold its lost power. As a result, they fielded two election. Davis raised approximately $350,000 Organizational Session strong gubernatorial candidates as well as in the last reporting period for a total of $5.6 on November 21st two viable candidates for Attorney General million ($3 million in in-kind contributions). for the purpose of and Chief Financial Officer. Further, more Jim Davis’ choice for Lt. Gov. is former swearing in new Democratic candidates have filed to run for Florida Senator Daryl Jones (D-Miami). Jones members and organiz- the Legislature this cycle, even in seats that is now a real estate investor and colonel in the ing their leadership historically vote Republican. Air Force Reserve. While serving in the team. The Republican Party has continued to Legislature, Jones had a 75% voting record In an election year, the outraise the Democratic Party this season. Last with AIF. House and Senate reporting period, the Republicans raised a typically hold meetings little over $5 million for a total amount raised Chief Financial Officer from December to of $28 million. In contrast, the Democratic Current Senate President Tom Lee (R- February to receive party has raised a total of $15 million overall. Brandon) beat Rep. Randy Johnson (R- reports on staff interim With less cash on hand, the Democrats will Celebration) for the Republican nomination. projects conducted work to leverage what they consider to be a If Crist performs as well as most insiders over the summer slump in Republican approval ratings to win believe, Lee may very well see an advantage and deliberate on seats in November. These issues and the in this race. legislation. specific details affecting individual races have Former Bank of America President Alex made the 2006 cycle one of the most active Sink is most likely the Democrat’s strongest election seasons in recent history. statewide candidate this cycle. The wife of When the dust settles following the No- vember 2006 General Election, Floridians will (continued on back page) have a new Governor, Attorney General and

EmployerAdvocateFall2006 3 Governor

CharlieCrist REPUBLICAN

he path of Charlie Crist’s life actually began more than four decades before he was born. Now, in a story straight out of the American dream, Charlie Crist is running for GovernorT of Florida, committed to the core principles of less taxes, less government and more freedom. Nearly 100 years ago, a young man came to America from Cyprus seeking the promise of a better life that only America could provide. Starting out nearly penniless, this young man named Adam would shine shoes and come to own a small business, eventually raising a family of seven children. One of those would become a doctor who, together with his wife, would raise four children here in Florida. One of those four is Adam’s grandson, Charlie Crist, who now seeks to serve as the next Governor of Florida. Charlie Crist is a student of the lessons school and played at Wake Forest University taught through his heritage and upbringing. before transferring and receiving his undergradu- Today he is a public servant defined by his ate degree from Florida State in 1978. Charlie then tireless devotion to the citizens of Florida, his earned his law degree from the Cumberland fundamental belief in the goodness of people, School of Law in Birmingham, Alabama. and his rock-solid commitment to the values that Crist received invaluable experience in have made America the envy of freedom-loving Florida’s criminal justice system while intern- people for more than two centuries. ing in the State Attorney’s Office, before accept- Charlie Crist was born in 1956 in Altoona, ing a position as general counsel for the minor Pennsylvania, but the family soon settled in St. league division of the Baseball Commissioner’s Petersburg, where his father is a respected Office. Charlie began his government service as family physician. Charlie learned the importance state director for U.S. Senator Connie Mack of public service from an early age, beginning before later returning to the private practice of with his father’s tenure on the Pinellas County law with the Tampa firm of Wood and Crist. School Board. As a public school student Charlie The desire to serve the public remained quickly learned the value of participation, strong. In 1992, he campaigned for, and won, a leading him to serve as class president at St. seat in the , where he represented Petersburg High School and, later, as student the interests of citizens concerned about such body vice president at Florida State University. issues as education, crime, the environment and His leadership qualities carried into other elder affairs. During his six years in the Senate, pursuits. He was the starting quarterback in high Crist served as Chairman of the Senate Ethics

4 EmployerAdvocateFall2006 A Look at the Candidates

and Elections Committee and as Chairman of distribute illegal spam on the Internet. the Appropriations Criminal Justice Subcom- Charlie Crist has long believed that the best mittee. A strong voice for public safety, he way to earn the people’s confidence is to do the sponsored, among other legislation, the Stop job they have asked him to do. In offices rang- Turning Out Prisoners (STOP) bill requiring ing from the Legislature to the Cabinet, Charlie prisoners to serve at least 85 percent of their has done exactly that. Now he is asking his prison sentences. This earned him numerous bosses—the people of Florida—for their vote to honors, including appointment as an Honorary serve as their Governor. Sheriff by the Florida Sheriffs Association— The path that led Charlie Crist to this mo- only the third person to receive the honor in the ment began in Cyprus more than nine decades organization’s long history. ago. Today, he is ready to lead Florida onward After Charlie completed his Senate service, down new paths of opportunity. Charlie Crist, Gov. appointed him as Deputy Secre- the embodiment of the American Dream, is tary of the Florida Department of Business and ready to be Governor. (Bio provided by the Crist Professional Regulation. In 2000, Charlie won a campaign.) special election and became Florida’s last elected Commissioner of Education, where he worked with Gov. Bush to implement reforms in school accountability and directing more Questionnaire resources into Florida classrooms. Charlie’s path of public service next led him One of the most important issues to both to seek election as Attorney General in 2002. He Florida’s businesses and its residents is won a clear majority against two opponents in affordable property insurance. What is your the Republican primary, and then carried the plan on how to lower the cost? general election by more than one-third of a We have learned over the past two years that million votes to become Florida’s first elected Florida will be hit by hurricanes. The only Republican Attorney General. question is who will pay for their destruction— As Attorney General, Charlie Crist has been the government or the insurance industry. It is a tireless advocate for consumers, for law- my fundamental belief that the insurance abiding citizens, for innocent crime victims, and industry should assume the financial risk for for those who have nowhere else to turn for hurricanes. help. Under his leadership, the Attorney With that principle in mind, as a member of General’s Office has recovered millions of the Financial Services Commission, I have dollars for consumers ripped off by scam already taken steps to make insurance more artists; prosecuted or sustained the convictions affordable by seeking to lower the costs of of hundreds of murderers, rapists and other reinsurance, approving a plan to help Florida’s criminals; crafted agreements that have pro- businesses obtain more affordable property tected the state’s environmental resources and insurance, and requiring Citizens Property taxpayers; and promoted effective new tools to Insurance Company to be more accountable combat domestic violence, stop child abduc- and responsive to its policyholders. tions, prevent Medicaid fraud and address In addition, I propose the following four- numerous other problems. prong approach to begin bringing stability, Charlie has worked with the Legislature to integrity, and hope back for Florida’s property pass new laws that dramatically toughened the owners: penalties for identity theft and counterfeiting or 1. Lower costs. dealing in prescription drugs. He proposed and I will accomplish this goal by allowing worked to pass Florida’s landmark civil rights insurers to access cheaper reinsurance through legislation, the Marvin Davies Civil Rights Act the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund more of 2003, to pursue those who engage in willful quickly. discrimination against others. He also won Florida also needs a national catastrophic approval for legislation targeting those who fund to bring stability to the market. I will work

EmployerAdvocateFall2006 5 with our congressional delegation, our partners 4. Bring insurers to Florida and increase competi- in Washington and with other Governors to tion in the marketplace. achieve that goal. I will work to end the practice where an 2. Provide financial incentives to homeowners to insurance company is already in the business of adequately prepare their homes for natural disasters. selling homeowners insurance in other states I believe that investing more money to but refuses to sell it here while continuing to protect homes before storms means that Florid- sell more profitable lines like auto insurance to ians will spend less to recover after storms. Florida consumers. As part of this proposal, I will require I will fight against this practice in order to insurance companies to provide meaningful bring more insurance companies to the market- discounts on insurance premiums if place. More insurers competing for business homeowners adequately prepare their homes will ultimately lower prices. before storms. Providing affordable insurance will require 3. Demand transparency and accountability for both Republicans and Democrats to work insurance companies. together to consider all good ideas, implement I will work to ensure that Florida subsidiar- those ideas, and ensure that Florida is an ies will not continue to demand record rate affordable place for Florida’s families. increases while their national parent companies make record profits. Another important issue for everyone is I will require annual “report cards” for education. What is your plan for expanding insurance companies, containing information educational and workforce development on claims handling, consumer complaints, opportunities in our state? discounts for mitigation, and profit margins, to I will align Florida’s education goals with be published by the Insurance Consumer the business community’s needs. Advocate. Under my Administration, all high school

Lt. Governor JeffKottkamp REPUBLICAN

eff Kottkamp lived in Indiana until 1977. He then moved to Southwest Florida in the Cape Coral area. J Jeff started his educational career first at Edison Community College in SW Florida where he received an A.A. degree in 1982. He then moved on to Florida State University where he received his B.S. in 1984. He then received a J.D. from the in 1987, and was later admitted to the Florida Bar in 1988. In 2000, he ran for the 74th district of Florida and won. During his time in the Legislature, Kottkamp has been Chairman of the following committees: Judiciary Appropriations, Government Operations and Judiciary. As a state legislator, Representative Kottkamp has received many distinguished honors throughout his career. Recently, Jeff Kottkamp accepted the challenge that the Republican Gubernatorial nominee Charlie Crist bestowed upon him, when he agreed to be on the ticket as his Lt. Governor.

6 EmployerAdvocateFall2006 A Look at the Candidates

students in Florida should graduate from high benefits packages that will serve health needs school fully prepared to accomplish one of the while being more affordable. following goals: Permitting small groups to join together to • enter the workplace; leverage purchasing power: I will work on • to pursue further career education, or improving the efficiency for small businesses to • to enter a post-secondary degree program. achieve lower employee premiums when they To meet that goal, my administration will join together to leverage their buying power. work with all sectors of Florida’s academic (B) Consumer-driven healthcare options for community to foster cutting-edge research in all Floridians: I will move Florida in a direction critical subject areas and then will facilitate the where consumers gain more control over their transfer of that research to commercially viable healthcare decisions and spending, and where sectors where a skilled workforce will be ready, market dynamics keep costs affordable. As willing and able to make those ideas a reality in Governor, I will promote the expansion of Florida’s economy. My initiatives include the Health Savings Accounts, through increased following: awareness about how the plans work and how • Promote the development of public univer- Floridians may benefit from these options. sities that will focus or increase their focus (C) Achieving federal participation in pro- on math, science and engineering programs; viding for the uninsured: The problem of • Foster education and economic clusters covering the uninsured is not just a matter for through Centers of Excellence; individual states. I will take the lead nationally • Seamless implementation and continued to bring federal funding to states that develop support of Career and Professional Acad- strategies for covering the uninsured. These emies and the Ready to Work Certification coordinated federal and state efforts must: Program; Encourage personal responsibility and • Grants to encourage the creation of public- consumer-driven healthcare; Strengthen the private partnerships to develop charter private insurance market and offer free-market technical centers to address workforce solutions; Cover catastrophic events and shortages in the cities they serve; and preventative care; and Redirect state dollars • Encourage the academic and business toward primary care medicine. communities to create regional workforce Further, I support interstate purchasing development centers to react quickly to pools, called Association Health Plans, which market demand would allow organizations to negotiate on an interstate basis on behalf of their members. The cost of health insurance continues to rise. Some believe Florida should implement the A recent development affecting employers “fair share” health plan. Do you believe statewide is the availability of affordable or employers should be mandated to provide “workforce” housing. As the next Governor health insurance to their employees? of Florida, what policies would you advocate No. Instead, myAdministration will make it to address the lack of affordable housing a top priority to increase the access and afford- across the state? ability of health insurance for all Floridians. I will not promote an arbitrary cap on the (A) Free-market solutions for small busi- Affordable Housing Trust Fund but will seek a nesses: I will work to increase the flexibility and solution that balances demands for affordable affordability of health plans for small groups housing statewide. I will also work closely with by: Permitting more flexible plan and benefit the Florida Housing Finance Corporation as it designs: Floridians should not have to choose implements the Community Workforce Hous- between “all or nothing.” Rather than requiring ing Innovation Pilot Program. My Administra- rigid plan structures, I believe that Florida tion will support public-private partnerships should allow the market to sell individualized that leverage private capital and public re-

EmployerAdvocateFall2006 7 A Look at the Candidates

sources, reduce the costs of developing afford- sexual predators to life in prison; increasing the able housing through regulatory incentives, number of state officers and prosecutors who and create housing opportunities for essential protect children from these predators; and services personnel like nurses, police officers, improving law enforcement’s ability to monitor and teachers. sexual predators.

“Hometown Democracy” is an initiative that What will be some of the first changes you is being supported by those who want to vote will make to Florida after being elected? on every change to a land use plan in a com- I will seek to lower property taxes, hold the munity. Do you favor this initiative? costs of property insurance down, continue to No. I believe in our representative form of instill high expectations in Florida’s schools so democracy and oppose a referendum on every that every child can succeed, and secure pas- local land use decision because it would effec- sage of the Anti-Murder Act that will require tively constitute a moratorium on growth. violent felony offenders who violate probation to remain in jail until a judge finds that they do If elected, what are your top three priorities not pose a danger to the community. and/or goals for your administration? 1. Education. I will work to make Florida’s Why should the business community in schools the best in the nation by Florida support your campaign for Governor? • maintaining high standards, accountabil- I believe that government’s role is not to ity, and transparency; create jobs but to create a business-friendly • increasing the high school graduation rate environment by taking the following actions: to 95 percent by 2015; • Keeping taxes low and limiting • ensuring that every high school graduate government’s growth and power; is ready for the workforce, additional • Ensuring that Florida’s education infra career training, or college when he or she structure meets the private sector’s needs graduates; with world-class research institutions and • increasing teacher salaries; a skilled workforce, and • providing every school in Florida with • Protecting the Sunshine State’s vibrant reading coaches; and quality of life with communities where • working to ensure that Florida has no Floridians can afford to work and play. failing public schools. 2. Lower Taxes. I will work to keep taxes low Finally, what is your message to Florida and ensure that Florida is an affordable place employers as they prepare to go to the polls in for families to live by November to cast their vote for Governor? • allowing counties to choose by referen- I will create a robust, diverse economy that dum to double the Homestead Exemption; will attract and retain the best and brightest • making the Save Our Homes cap portable academic minds, the courageous entrepreneurs statewide; and risk-takers that create jobs and a highly • reducing the state sales tax on telecommu- skilled and savvy workforce. I will further nications; and stimulate the economy by reducing taxes, • making Florida’s sales tax holidays spending cash instead of creating debt, limiting permanent. the growth of government and setting aside 3. Public Safety. I will protect the safety of savings for times of emergency. Floridians by passing the Anti-Murder Act to Simply put, as Governor, I will nurture an require violent felony offenders who violate economic climate that encourages diverse, probation to stay locked up; increasing penal- high-wage businesses to expand and locate in ties for soliciting children; sentencing repeat Florida.

8 EmployerAdvocateFall2006 Tribute

nation, an unemployment rate that is consis- Farewell tently lower that the national average and reputed as a haven for high-tech industry . By Liz Hirst We see it in this year’s historic repeal of joint and several liability. Bush was one of the n just a few short months, Floridians will strongest advocates behind meaningful tort bid farewell to the state’s 43rd Governor. reform to provide predictability and fairness The New Year marks the end of Jeb Bush’s I to Florida’s civil justice system and to prevent second term governing a place he so fondly abusive litigation. describes as…“The Great State of Florida.” We see his savvy in the billions of dollars in Championing great causes for the good of tax relief he has brought to Floridians, most all Floridians has been the very foundation of notably the repeal of the fundamentally unfair Governor Bush’s administration. He has been Intangibles Tax which penalized people for passionate and steadfast in his dedication to preparing for retirement by saving and invest- Thank you foster a strong and vibrant economy for ing over a lifetime. Floridians today and for those of future gen- Governor Bush; We see it in his passion to protect Florida’s erations. This commitment will be a funda- for supporting more than seven-million workers and the mental ingredient in the great legacy this business owners who employ them. Bush AIF’s efforts to Governor will leave behind. pushed for a workers compensation reform lower workers’ Over the past eight years, Governor Bush package that would increase benefits for has been a shameless and tireless promoter of comp rates and injured workers and create incentives for Florida and its business climate. He has taken provide a employers to improve safety in workplaces. bold steps to bolster business and economic Thank you Governor Bush; you have balanced legal interests that would improve the quality of life created a climate of success and an opportu- system for in Florida. He has tirelessly pursued bringing nity for greater prosperity for all Floridians. better paying jobs to the state and employer Florida’s Associated Industries of Florida, and its incentives to spur business growth. Bush employers. members, salute Governor Bush for his bold understands the value that quality education and innovative leadership. Jeb Bush — a true — his number one priority — brings to the “Champion for Busines.” state’s economy; often remarking that “an educated workforce is the foundation for a Liz Hirst is the Managing Director of vibrant, diversified economy.” CoreMessage, a Tallahassee public relations Bush has created a place where entrepre- firm (e-mail: [email protected]). neurs are enticed and nurtured, attracting countless new and innovative companies to the Sunshine State. His outreach hasn’t been limited to expanding companies already established within Florida or even the U.S. He also has worked to fuel global business development through trade missions as far away as South Africa, , Latin America and Canada. Jeb Bush, without a doubt, has been this state’s most business savvy Governor. He has been a strong advocate for the business commu- nity over the years, standing particularly strong with AIF on two of its toughest legislative battles — tort reform and workers compensation. We see his savvy in Florida’s robust economy. Under Bush’s leadership, Florida has Governor Jeb Bush congratulates AIF’s Jose Gonzalez, Barney Bishop, Keyna Cory, and Florida Coalition for been touted as the world’s economic hot spot, Legal Reform Co-Chairs Tammy Perdue and John Thrasher on the historic passage of HB 145 — the repeal creating more jobs than any other state in the of Joint & Several Liability.

EmployerAdvocateFall2006 9 Governor

JimDavis DEMOCRAT

im Davis is an experienced, effective leader who listens to the needs and concerns of Floridians and gets results that make a difference to our families. J From the State House to Congress, Jim has earned a reputation as a smart, principled fighter for common sense solutions to the problems of ordinary people. A fourth-generation Floridian, Jim learned early on the values of hard work, community service, and accountability. An important figure in Jim’s childhood was his grandfather, Cody Fowler, a Tampa community leader who stood up for civil rights in the 1950’s and fought to rid local government of corruption. From him, Jim learned the importance of standing up for what you believe is right, even if it’s not the popular thing to do. He also learned that it is every citizen’s right to be treated with respect — by problem in Florida’s schools — increasing class their neighbor, by their community and by size. The result was a class size law that set their government. manageable student-teacher ratios based on the As an elected leader, Jim believes that input from people closest to the issue, and, respect means giving everyone a seat at the most important, gave schools the resources they table and a voice in their own government. He needed to meet these goals. understands that the best ideas and best solu- The class-size law was repealed by the tions to the problems families face come from current administration in Tallahassee. One the people. That’s how Jim has approached his reason Jim is running for Governor is to bring job as state legislator, Florida House majority the voices of teachers, parents, principals and leader, and congressman. He brings people students back to the discussion of improving together to forge common sense solutions, and education and put our schools back on a path to he gets results. That’s what he will do as success. Governor. Jim brought the same approach of listening As Majority Leader of the Florida House of to Floridians and getting results to Washington Representatives in the mid-1990’s, Jim brought when he was elected to Congress in 1996. When together teachers, principals, parents and a Tampa postal worker told Jim that his mother community leaders to address a growing was being kicked out of a nursing home be-

10 EmployerAdvocateFall2006 A Look at the Candidates

cause she was on Medicaid, Jim wrote and cheaper to insure. Third, I’ll team up with passed legislation to stop nursing homes from governors around the country and continue the evicting low-income seniors. When Florida’s work that I’ve started in Congress to lobby for schools started feeling the squeeze of a teacher the creation of a national catastrophic fund. By shortage, Jim wrote and passed legislation distributing the risk associated with natural helping schools recruit and train new teachers disasters, whether it’s wildfires in the Mountain from the private sector. When oil companies West, flooding in the Northeast or hurricanes in tried to open up Florida’s coastline for drilling, the Gulf Coast, we can reduce the cost of Jim led the bipartisan coalition that stopped property insurance for policyholders across the them. country, especially in Florida. Jim is effective because he speaks up for Floridians and stands up for his principles. As Another important issue for everyone is Governor, Jim will open the doors of govern- education. What is your plan for expanding ment in Tallahassee to all Floridians. He will educational and workforce development make sure everyone’s ideas are heard and fight opportunities in our state? for common sense solutions that move all DAVIS: I’m running for governor to invest in Floridians forward to a brighter future. our schools, teachers and students and build a (Bio provided by the Davis campaign.) highly skilled workforce here in Florida to attract good jobs to our state. Florida’s promise to our children is a first-rate education that allows them to reach their highest potential and gives them the tools to compete in a global Questionnaire economy. We need a governor who will work every day to build that kind of world-class One of the most important issues to both education system. Florida’s businesses and its residents is I’ve proposed Achieve Florida, a plan to affordable property insurance. What is your overhaul the FCAT, raise standards and help plan on how to lower the cost? struggling schools. I’ll bring true accountability DAVIS: I’ve proposed a “Policyholders Bill to Florida schools and make sure our children of Rights” to protect the interests of Florida are exposed to the critical thinking and analyti- homeowners and business owners by holding cal skills they’ll need to fill the high-quality, insurance companies accountable for paying high-paying jobs of the future. claims and charging fair rates. Florida policy- We need an education system that does more holders must have access to affordable property than teach to the test. I’m proposing to improve insurance policies. Instead, policyholders are the quality of Florida’s public schools by currently facing soaring insurance premiums bringing true accountability and teaching kids with no relief in sight. critical thinking and analytical skills. First, under my proposal I will appoint a Policyholder Advocate General who will be an The cost of health insurance continues to rise. advocate for homeowners and business own- Some believe Florida should implement the ers. Second, we will also form public-private “fair share” health plan. Do you believe partnerships to make it easier for homeowners employers should be mandated to provide and business owners to get access to capital to health insurance to their employees? hurricane-proof their property. Property that’s DAVIS: We need to strengthen our health better prepared to withstand a hurricane is care system and increase access to affordable,

EmployerAdvocateFall2006 11 quality health care for millions of working Florida families will have access to quality, Floridians. I’ve proposed a couple of ideas to affordable health care. lower the cost of health care and increase the I am opposed to mandating that employers number of working people who have access to provide health insurance and believe we should affordable health care. First, we’ll fully fund focus on making health care more affordable Florida KidCare so more working parents can and increasing access to health care. get quality health care for their children. Second, I’ve proposed Florida join with other A recent development affecting employers states to pool our purchasing power and statewide is the availability of affordable or negotiate with pharmaceutical companies to “workforce” housing. As the next Governor of lower prices for Florida’s state employees and Florida, what policies would you advocate to retirees. Third, I’ve proposed establishing a address the lack of affordable housing across program to allow seniors to purchase safe the state? prescription medicine from licensed pharmacies DAVIS: We need a serious commitment to in Canada. Fourth, I’ve proposed allowing address the affordable housing crisis. We small businesses to form purchasing co-ops that should start by fully utilizing the housing can negotiate better rates from insurance dollars in the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. companies to cover their employees and their In addition, I’ll stop the raids on the Afford- families. As governor, I’ll make it a priority to able Housing Trust Fund and put the trust back see that Florida is no longer a state where in the trust funds. I’ll make affordable housing wealth equals health. Working families a priority and fully use all allocated dollars for shouldn’t have to choose between paying their its intended purpose — providing housing for bills and getting needed medical care. Our Florida’s families. I’ll work with the diverse families deserve better and as governor, more coalition of organizations, businesses, and

Lt. Governor DarylJones DEMOCRAT aryl Jones was born in Jackson, Miss., at the height of the Civil Rights movement. He was part of the first group of students to attend inte- D grated schools in his hometown. He was valedictorian of his high school and president of the Mississippi State Association of Student Councils. Jones became the first African-American from Mississippi to attend any United States military academy when he was accepted to the Air Force Academy; he later gradu- ated from the Academy with honors. He graduated cum laude from the University of Miami law school and was awarded the Iron Arrow Award, the school’s highest honor. He was elected to the Florida House in 1992 where he served two years and in 1994 he was elected to the Florida Senate where he served until 2002. Jones was the first African-American to be nominated to be secretary of the Air Force. Jones is also the first African-American in Florida to be nominated as Lieutenant Governor .

12 EmployerAdvocateFall2006 A Look at the Candidates

advocates who are increasingly concerned nesses: lower taxes, reduce health care costs about affordable housing to come up with and do something about the skyrocketing costs innovative and effective ideas such as public- of property insurance. I’ll do all three. First, I’ve private partnerships and community land laid out a “Contract with Florida Taxpayers” trusts. that will do something my opponent won’t — lower property taxes for Florida businesses. “Hometown Democracy” is an initiative that Not only will I reduce property taxes by $1 is being supported by those who want to vote billion, we’ll cap annual property tax increases on every change to a land use plan in a com- for businesses at ten percent. These caps will munity. Do you favor this initiative? make it easier for businesses to make long-term DAVIS: I’m opposed to the Hometown plans and determine a worst-case scenario for Democracy initiative. I believe voters should their future property tax liability. Second, too have a voice in growth plans, but putting up many businesses in Florida can’t grow as each plan to vote in a local election is not the quickly as they would like, because they are best way to go about it. saddled with the rapidly rising cost of health insurance. I’ve proposed a Small Business If elected, what are your top three priorities Works program to allow small businesses to and/or goals for your administration? pool their resources andnegotiate for lower DAVIS: My top three priorities are simple: prices from the health insurance companies that One, invest in Florida’s schools in order to offer benefits to their employees and their build a world class education system to protect employees’ families. Third, because many small Florida’s place in the global economy. Two, businesses are struggling in an environment of lower property taxes by $1 billion next year and higher health care costs, higher energy costs offer tax relief to every Floridian. Three, stand and rising taxes, they simply can’t afford up to the insurance companies and hold them soaring property insurance rates. As governor, accountable for paying claims and charging I’ll hold the insurance companies accountable fair rates. for charging fair rates and I will use the re- sources and authority of the Governor’s office What will be some of the first changes you to fight for the interests of Florida’s business will make to Florida after being elected? owners who are struggling to pay for property DAVIS: From the beginning, my administra- insurance. tion will be fighting for the interests of Florida’s families on the most important issues facing Finally, what is your message to Florida our state. Right away, we’ll begin working to employers as they prepare to go to the polls in lower property taxes, stand up to the insurance November to cast their vote for Governor? industry, improve our public education system DAVIS: I’m running for governor to change and strengthen our economy. These are the Florida for the better. We need new solutions issues that are most important to the future of and new ideas to address the skyrocketing our state, and these are the changes that are property insurance crisis, lower property taxes long overdue. for all Floridians, including businesses, im- prove our schools and strengthen our economy, Why should the business community in to name a few. Florida support your campaign for Governor? DAVIS: The next Florida governor can do three important things to help Florida busi-

EmployerAdvocateFall2006 13 Attorney General BillMcCollum SkipCampbell REPUBLICAN DEMOCRAT

native Floridian, Bill McCollum was enator Walter G. “Skip” Campbell, Jr. was born on July 12, 1944, in Brooksville, born in Rockaway Beach, New York on A Florida. He graduated from Hernando S November 12, 1948. Skip began at St. John High School and earned his bachelor’s degree Vianney Seminary and continued at the Univer- and law degree from the University of Florida. sity of Florida, where he was inducted into He was a member (and President in 1968) of Alpha Epsilon Delta Pre-Medical Honor Soci- Florida Blue Key, and is a member of the ety. Skip graduated from the University of University of Florida Hall of Fame. Florida in 1970 and University of Florida Law McCollum served on active duty in the U.S. School in 1973. Skip joined with Jon Krupnick Navy from 1969 to 1972. In 1992, he retired from in Broward County and in 1975 they became the Naval Reserve as a Commander, having known as Krupnick & Campbell. served 23 years as an officer in the Judge Advo- In 1996, Skip was elected to the Florida cate General’s (JAG) Corps. He is a member of Senate. Senator Campbell is an accomplished the American Legion, the Reserve Officers legislator and he proudly serves the communi- Association, the Naval Reserve Association and ties of the western portions of central and the Military Order of the World Wars. northern Broward County. He has received Bill represented the people of Central Florida many awards and recognition for his involve- in the United States Congress for 20 years, retiring ment with consumer issues and law enforce- from the House of Representatives in 2001. ment, too many to mention. Senator Campbell

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Attorney General: The Attorney General is the constitutional, statewide elected official who serves as the attorney for the State of Florida. The Attorney General is responsible for the enforcement of state consumer protection and antitrust laws as well as civil prosecu- tion of criminal racketeering. In the area of criminal law, the Attorney General represents the State when those convicted appeal their convictions, including capital murder cases. The Attorney General is authorized to issue formal legal opinions at the request of various public officials on questions relating to the application of state law and defends the constitutionality of statutes duly enacted by the Legislature.

14 EmployerAdvocateFall2006 A Look at the Candidates Commissioner of Agriculture CharlesBronson EricCopeland REPUBLICAN DEMOCRAT

harles H. “Charlie” Bronson became the ric Copeland is not afraid to fight: he 10th Commissioner of Agriculture and has made a professional and political C Consumer Services on May 14, 2001 after Ecareer of fighting for small businesses, being appointed by Governor Jeb Bush to fill a progressive issues and Democratic values. vacancy in the office. Commissioner Br onson A 22 year resident of Florida, Copeland grew was elected to a full four-year term on Novem- up in Illinois ten minutes from corn fields and ber 5, 2002 with over 57% of the vote to become forty minutes outside of Chicago. His grandfather the first Republican elected to the office of owned a family farm. Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Eric came to South Florida when he received Services. a Henry King Stanford academic scholarship to Managing the largest state Department of attend the University of Miami. He enjoyed the Agriculture in the country with more than 3,700 sunshine so much he stayed for law school and employees, Bronson’s priorities include over- settled to raise his family. seeing the state’s vast agriculture industry and Eric Copeland is an attorney and tax profes- helping to promote its products, safeguarding sional who has fought for thousands of home the state’s food supply, protecting consumers owners and small businesses. Eric Copeland is from unfair and deceptive trade practices, con- ready to be our Commissioner of Agriculture trolling plant and animal disease, and manag- and Consumer Services because he understands ing nearly one million acres of state forests. the relationship between consumers, producers,

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Commissioner of Agriculture: The commissioner’s priorities include overseeing the state’s vast agriculture industry and helping promote its products, safeguarding the state’s food supply, protecting consumers from unfair and deceptive trade practices, assisting Florida’s farmers and agricultural industries with the production and promotion of agricultural products; and conserving and protect- ing the state’s agricultural and natural resources by reducing wildfires, promoting environmentally safe agricultural prac- tices, and managing approximately 1 million acres of state forests.

EmployerAdvocateFall2006 15 Chef Financial Officer TomLee AlexSink REPUBLICAN DEMOCRAT

om Lee was unanimously voted by his lex Sink is a dynamic financial and civic colleagues to serve as the President of the leader whose professional experience TFlorida Senate in November 2004; the A and community service have molded Senate’s first elected presiding officer from her into a champion for fiscal responsibility and Hillsborough County in over 70 years. accountability and prepared her for statewide In his first run for public office in 1996, he public leadership. was elected to the Florida Senate. Since then, For nearly 25 years, Alex has been a trail- President Lee has been reelected subsequently blazer in the financial profession. Her distin- to Senate District 10, which includes portions of guished career began with service as a teacher Pasco County, Polk County, and Hillsborough in West Africa and culminated in her rise to County. President of Florida’s largest bank. Sink served President Lee brings many years of experi- as Florida President of Bank of America, where ence in the business world and a strong com- she managed more than $40 billion in assets mitment to his community. He is the Vice- while supervising more than 9,000 employees President of Sabal Homes, a family owned and in 800 branches and earning a reputation for operated homebuilding company in Florida. credibility, integrity and fair dealing. His service in the community includes one term Alex’s accomplishments in the financial as the President of the Board of Directors for the world have been complemented by her strong Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce; a commitment to public service and civic and trustee on the Brandon Regional Hospital community leadership. Her record demon

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Chief Financial Officer: The Chief Financial Officer oversees the Department of Financial Services, which is responsible for assisting consumers who need information and help related to financial services, including banking, securities and insurance. In addition, the depart- ment keeps track of all money coming into and going out of state government — an amount that totals more than $63 billion annually. The CFO also serves as the State Fire Marshal.

16 EmployerAdvocateFall2006 A Look at the Candidates U.S. Senate KatherineHarris BillNelson REPUBLICAN DEMOCRAT

former IBM marketing executive and ill’s roots in the Sunshine State run deep. vice president of a commercial real He was born in Miami and attended A estate firm, Congresswoman Harris Bpublic schools in Melbourne. In 1971, Bill earned a Master’s Degree from Harvard Uni- met Grace Cavert, of Jacksonville, at the Key versity with a specialization in international Club youth state convention. That evening, trade and negotiations, and a Bachelor’s Degree Grace went home and woke her parents to tell in history from Agnes Scott College. She stud- them: “I’ve met the man I’m going to marry.” ied abroad at the University of Madrid and at Indeed, Bill and Grace were married a little L’Abri outside Geneva, Switzerland. more than a year later. And for 34 years now, During her term in the Florida state senate, they have been a devoted, loving couple. Congresswoman Harris served as chair of the During Bill’s years in Congress, Grace was Senate Committee on Commerce and Economic President of the International Club, which Opportunities and as vice-chair of the Senate promotes friendship and understanding among Committee on Banking and Insurance and the women worldwide. Senate Committee on Governmental Reform. Bill and Grace have two grown children, Bill Her legislative achievements included an Nelson, Jr., and Nan Ellen Nelson. economic development package that helped Bill served six years in the Fla. Legislature. fuel Florida’s dramatic rise from 42nd place to He sponsored a law to take on racketeering, 1st place in the nation as a state to start a new and passed into law one of the nation’s earliest business or grow an existing business; a statutes against computer crimes. In the U.S.

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U.S. Senate: U.S. Senators are elected by a statewide vote. Senators are responsible for representing the people of their state in the . Part of this responsibility is writing and voting on bills in the U.S. Senate. In addition, Senators vote on confirmation hearings for a variety of high ranking government officials including cabinet directors, ambassadors, and Supreme Court Justices. US Senators serve 6 year terms that are staggered so elections are held for approximately one-third of the seats every two years.

EmployerAdvocateFall2006 17 Bill McCollum (R) Skip Campbell (D) While in Congress, Bill founded the U.S. has been outspoken about rising gas prices and House Task Force on Terrorism and Unconven- gas price gouging as well as identity theft and tional Warfare, chaired it for six years, and is privacy protection. recognized as an expert on terrorism. Senator Campbell, has been routinely recog- Bill also served three terms on the House nized by newspapers throughout the state as Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, one of the most effective legislators in Tallahas- two of which he served as Chairman of its see. Skip has been very ef fective at working Subcommittee on Human Intelligence, Analysis with both parties in the Senate and has been and Counterintelligence. In the aftermath of the awarded three Chairmanships despite being a September 11th terrorist attacks, Governor Jeb member of the minority party. Senator Bush appointed McCollum to serve on the Campbell is currently in the Senate leadership, eleven member Florida Domestic Security serving as the Minority Leader Pro-Tempore. Advisory Panel. Skip was board-certified as a civil trial In addition, Bill was Vice Chairman of the lawyer by The Florida Bar in 1983. He is also a House Banking Committee and served on the licensed helicopter and fixed wing pilot and a Judiciary Committee where he was Chairman member of the Lawyer-Pilots Bar Association. of the Subcommittee on Crime, and a member He is admitted to practice before the United on the Immigration Subcommittee. States District Court for the Southern and While serving the U.S. House, McCollum Middle Districts of Florida, the United States was selected for a variety of leadership posi- Court of Appeals for the Fifth and Eleventh tions, including three terms as Vice Chairman of Circuits, the District of Columbia Court of the House Republican Conference. Bill was one Appeals, United States Supreme Court and the of 15 Members selected to serve on the House United States Court of Federal Claims. Committee to investigate the Iran Contra Affair, He has consistently received an AV rating by and served as one of the House Managers in the the Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory, which is impeachment trial of President Clinton. the highest rating given by this publication. He Today, former Congressman Bill McCollum is is also among a select group included in the a partner with Baker & Hostetler LLP practicing book, Best Lawyers in America, and the publi- in the federal policy area. He serves as President cation Leading American Attorneys. and Chairman of the Healthy Florida Founda- Academically, Skip has served as an adjunct tion, chartered in 2002 to find consensus on long- professor of law at Nova Southeastern Shepard term solutions to the nation’s health care system. Broad Law Center and has been a review editor Bill is also on the Board of Directors of the James for Matthew Bender and James Publishing Madison Institute, Florida’s most prestigious Companies. He has also hosted a popular conservative think tank. In addition, Bill is a television show, “You and the Law.” member of the Board of Governors of the Uni- During his legal career he has been a leader versity System of the State of Florida 2005-2006. within the profession. He has served as President Bill also serves as a member of the Board of of the Broward County Bar Association, President Directors of the American Security Council of the Broward County Young Lawyers Associa- (ASC) and the ASC Foundation. tion, and President of the Federal Bar Association Bill has been married to Ingrid Seebohm of Broward County. He was elected to the Board McCollum for 35 years. They have three sons: of Governors of The Florida Bar from 1988 Douglas, Justin and Andrew and two grand- through 1996, and was the recipient of The sons: Nathan and Stephen. (Bio provided by the Florida Bar Meritorious Service Award. McCollum campaign.) Senator Skip Campbell’s dedication to his

18 EmployerAdvocateFall2006 A Look at the Candidates

community is well demonstrated by his civic Committee (1998 to 2001), as well as Chairman involvement. He has served as local chairman of the Agriculture Committee (1996 to 1998), of the Broward Chapter National Multiple among other committee assignments. Sclerosis Society, as a board member for Kids in He has received numerous awards, including Distress, and on the Legal Advocates Commit- the Brevard County Farm Bureau “Distin- tee of the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis. He guished Farm Service Award” in 2000, the has been actively involved with the Cystic Coastal Conservation Association of Florida Fibrosis Foundation, the Arthritis Foundation Legislative Conservation Award in 1999, as well and the Emerald Society. Skip has received as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation numerous awards for his civic, professional and Commission Legislative Appreciation Award in legislative efforts including the Hope Award of 1999 and both Florida Sheriff’s and Florida the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and the Police Chief Association’s Legislative Awards. Distinguished Community Service Award of He has also been an agri-business owner and the B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation League of operator in Florida since 1973. Coral Springs/Parkland. (Bio provided by the Bronson’s responsibilities are wide and Campbell campaign.) diverse. And he will be the first to tell you that three key people, his wife, Regina, and daugh- ters, Michelle and Melanie keep everything in Charles Bronson (R) perspective. (Bio provided by the Bronson In addition to leading Florida’s Department campaign.) of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Bronson serves on the Florida Cabinet — a body that includes Florida’s three statewide elected Eric Copeland (D) officials, as well as the Governor, and oversees taxes, investments and our economy. state land-buying programs, clemency issues Copeland married Argentinean-American, and directs the operations of several state Claudia, and is raising two bilingual daughters, agencies. Bronson recently completed his term Lara and Stefania — both in public schools. In as President of the Southern Association of addition to running his business, Copeland has State Departments of Agriculture. made politics his business too. Born into a ranching family in Kissimmee in Now Copeland had entered the race to be 1949, Bronson is a 5th generation Floridian and Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture and comes from a family that traces its long agricul- Consumer Services. (Bio provided by the Copeland tural roots to 1635 as each generation of the campaign.) family has been in farming since that date. The Commissioner attended Osceola County public schools and earned his A.S. in Agricultural Sciences from the Abraham Baldwin Agricul- tural College in 1970, and his B.S.A. in both NOVEMBER 7TH Animal Science and Agricultural Education from the University of Georgia in 1973. Befor e becoming Florida’s Agriculture Get Commissioner, Bronson served as a sworn law enforcement officer in Dade and Brevard County and, all the while, stayed actively Out involved in the family’s cattle business. From 1994 to 2001 he was a Florida State Senator, and serving as Chairman of the Natural Resources Vote!

EmployerAdvocateFall2006 19 Tom Lee (R) Katherine Harris (R) Board; and a member of the Board of Directors significant increase in teacher salaries; and for the Hillsborough Community College stiffened penalties for white collar crime and Foundation. for crimes committed against the elderly. Lee is best known for his straightforward As Florida’s 23rd and last elected secretary leadership style and has earned a reputation as of state, Congresswoman Harris jointly exer- an independent thinker and a results-oriented cised responsibility for clemency, education, leader. His legislative priorities include champi- law enforcement and the environment with the oning comprehensive reforms meant to pro- governor of Florida as a member of Florida’s mote openness and integrity in state govern- unique Executive Cabinet. She also served as ment, updating Florida’s growth management head of the Florida Department of State, a laws, with a particular focus on reducing the multifaceted agency that managed Florida’s deficiencies in infrastructure: Florida’s schools, state-level responsibilities in international roads and water supply. He has also been a affairs, elections, corporate and business regis- strong advocate for the establishment of mid- trations, licensing, historic preservation, librar- range financial planning in the state’s budget- ies, and culture and the arts. ing process, and a private sector “Government As secretary of state, Congresswoman Harris Efficiency Task Force” to review service deliv- concurrently served as the head of Florida’s Office ery systems in the state. (Bio provided by the Lee of International Affairs and led the development campaign.) of a wide variety of innovative programs that sought to employ diplomatic, humanitarian, educational and cultural tools to provide eco- Alex Sink (D) nomic opportunities at home while building strates a firm belief in public accountability, understanding, prosperity and stability abroad. economic growth, fiscal discipline and a devo- While serving as secretary of state, Congress- tion to future generations of Floridians. woman Harris laid the strong foundation for Governor Lawton Chiles appointed Alex to Florida’s preeminent campaign to win the the Commission on Government Accountability Permanent Secretariat for the Free Trade Area of to the People, where she helped lead efforts to the Americas (FTAA). She worked intensively to make state government more responsive. As vice ensure Florida as the lead location among all chair of Florida TaxWatch, she advocated fiscal candidates for the Secretariat in the Western responsibility in state government. She has Hemisphere by obtaining the unanimous vote of worked diligently for Florida’s children through both houses of the United States Congress her service on Governor Chiles’ Commission on expressing a preference for Florida’s candidacy Education and the Hillsborough Education over any other potential site in the United States, Foundation Board of Directors, and as Chair of as well as securing funding from Congress to Take Stock in Children. assist Florida’s bid for the Secretariat. Alex has also been a dedicated community Congresswoman Harris is a member of the leader. Her civic involvements have included House Financial Services Committee, the House service with the Florida Chapter of the Nature International Relations Committee and the Conservancy, the Beth El Farm Workers Minis- Homeland Security Committee. Katherine has try, and as Chairman of the Board of the United also been appointed to serve on the leadership Way of Hillsborough County. team as a deputy whip. Alex, who grew up on a farm, currently Congresswoman Harris also led the transfor- resides in Thonotosassa with her husband, Bill mation of the Gulf of Mexico States Accord into a McBride, and their two children, Bert and Lexie, vibrant partnership that has made tremendous who attend Armwood High School. The family strides towards its objective of unifying the Gulf is active in the Presbyterian Church of Seffner. region through the enhancement of investment, (Bio provided by the Sink campaign.) trade and tourism, as well as through the promo-

20 EmployerAdvocateFall2006 A Look at the Candidates

tion of economic, transportation, academic and stop oil drilling off Florida’s coast. Bill rose to cultural exchanges between its member states. the chairmanship of the Space Subcommittee of Launched in 1995, the Gulf of Mexico States the Science, Space and Technology Committee. Accord had lapsed into near dormancy when Bill was elected to the Florida Cabinet in 1994 then-Secretary of State Harris negotiated the and served six years as Treasurer, Insurance location of the Accord’s Secretariat in Tampa. Commissioner and State Fire Marshal. As During the four months following the establish- Insurance Commissioner, he fought successfully ment of the Secretariat, the Tampa Bay region’s against life insurance sales abuses that targeted trade with Mexico grew by $30 million, inspiring senior citizens and minorities and chaired the Chrysler to reroute the shipping of the automo- board of the state’s Healthy Kids program that biles manufactured in Mexico through the Port provides health coverage to tens of thousands of of Tampa, and establishing a pilot program ferry previously uninsured Florida children. He also service between Tampa and the Yucatán. helped pass legislation that assured breast cancer In the aftermath of the 2000 election contro- patients’ adequate hospital stays. And, he fought versy, Congresswoman Harris’ leadership for people who most needed help by initiating a provided a driving impetus for election reform. major investigation of insurers who exploited In 2001, she testified before the U.S. House minorities by selling junk burial policies and Administration Committee and proposed playing a key role in forcing European insurers legislation that became the blueprint for to honor unpaid claims from the Holocaust. Florida’s nationally acclaimed Election Reform Nelson continued his record as a leader in Act. In 2002, she successfully proposed and government reform by putting medical malprac- achieved passage of historic civil rights legisla- tice claims on the Internet so patients could tion in Florida that forcefully addresses the review them when choosing a doctor. exclusion of persons with disabilities from full Since January of 2001, has served and equal participation in the electoral process. Florida and the nation in the U.S. Senate, where Congresswoman Harris has received numer- he’s been a member of the Armed Services, ous honors for her dedicated work on behalf of Foreign Relations, Budget and Commerce Florida including: the Mel Fisher Award for committees. He led the fight to stop plans to International Trade Advocacy; the Florida scrap the USS Kennedy and worked to protect Economic Development Council Legislator of veterans by closing the illegal loophole that the Year Award; the Florida United Business allows companies to exploit profit from unsus- Association Outstanding Legislator Award; the pecting veterans by charging outrageous interest Florida Arts Advocacy Award; the Sarasota rates for instant cash loans. Throughout his Manatee Jewish Family and Children Service’s service in the Senate, Bill Nelson has consistently Philanthropy Award; the Sarasota Humanitar- put Florida first, fighting relentlessly to stop off- ian of the Year Award and the Sarasota States- shore oil drilling, opposing efforts to privatize man of the Year Award. Social Security and cut benefits, working for Congresswoman Harris was born in Key funding for health studies and clean-ups of West, Florida. She returns to the district every Superfund sites around the state, and taking on weekend to spend time with her husband the federal disaster relief agency (FEMA) to Anders Ebbeson and his 24-year-old daughter, ensure Florida residents got the funding they Louise and the constituents of District thirteen. needed in the wake of the hurricanes of 2004 and (Bio provided by the Harris campaign.) 2005. A product of public schools, Bill supported education initiatives calling for an increase in accountability and additional public school Bill Nelson (D) investment. He also has been a leader in the fight House of Representatives, where Bill served for to stop the government from arbitrarily seizing 12 years, he was a leader in the fight to balance private property for private developments, such the federal budget, and successfully fought to as shopping malls and condominiums.

EmployerAdvocateFall2006 21 CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS TO BE VOTED ON NOVEMBER 7, 2006 No. 1 CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT NO. 6 ARTICLE III, SECTION 19 (Legislative) CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT Ballot Title: ARTICLE VII, SECTION 6 STATE PLANNING AND BUDGET PROCESS ARTICLE XII, SECTION 26 (Legislative) Ballot Summary: Proposing amendments to the State Constitution Ballot Title: to limit the amount of nonrecurring general revenue which may be INCREASED HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION appropriated for recurring purposes in any fiscal year to 3 percent of Ballot Summary: Proposing amendment of the State Constitution to the total general revenue funds estimated to be available, unless oth- increase the maximum additional homestead exemption for low-income erwise approved by a three-fifths vote of the Legislature; to establish a seniors from $25,000 to $50,000 and to schedule the amendment to Joint Legislative Budget Commission, which shall issue long-range take effect January 1, 2007, if adopted. financial outlooks; to provide for limited adjustments in the state budget without the concurrence of the full Legislature, as provided NO. 7 by general law; to reduce the number of times trust funds are CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT automatically terminated; to require the preparation and biennial revi- ARTICLE VII, SECTION 6 (Legislative) sion of a long-range state planning document; and to establish a Govern- Ballot Title: ment Efficiency Task Force and specify its duties. PERMANENTLY DISABLED VETERANS’ DISCOUNT ON HOMESTEAD AD VALOREM TAX NO. 3 Ballot Summary: Proposing an amendment to the State Constitu- CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT tion to provide a discount from the amount of ad valorem tax on the ARTICLE XI, SECTION 5 (Legislative) homestead of a partially or totally permanently disabled veteran who is Ballot Title: age 65 or older who was a Florida resident at the time of entering REQUIRING BROADER PUBLIC SUPPORT FOR military service, whose disability was combat-related, and who was CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS OR REVISIONS honorably discharged; to specify the percentage of the discount as equal Ballot Summary: Proposes an amendment to Section 5 of Article to the percentage of the veteran’s permanent service-connected XI of the State Constitution to require that any proposed amendment disability; to specify qualification requirements for the discount; to to or revision of the State Constitution, whether proposed by the Leg- authorize the Legislature to waive the annual application requirement islature, by initiative, or by any other method, must be approved by in subsequent years by general law; and to specify that the provision at least 60 percent of the voters of the state voting on the measure, takes effect December 7, 2006, is self-executing, and does not require rather than by a simple majority. This proposed amendment would implementing legislation. not change the current requirement that a proposed constitutional amendment imposing a new state tax or fee be approved by at least NO. 8 2/3 of the voters of the state voting in the election in which such an CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT amendment is considered. ARTICLE X, SECTION 6 (Legislative) Ballot Title: NO. 4 EMINENT DOMAIN CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT Ballot Summary: Proposing an amendment to the State Constitu- ARTICLE X, SECTION 27 (Citizen Initiative) tion to prohibit the transfer of private property taken by eminent Ballot Title: domain to a natural person or private entity; providing that the Legis- PROTECT PEOPLE, ESPECIALLY YOUTH, FROM lature may by general law passed by a three-fifths vote of the member- ADDICTION, DISEASE, AND OTHER HEALTH ship of each house of the Legislature permit exceptions allowing the HAZARDS OF USING TOBACCO transfer of such private property; and providing that this prohibition Ballot Summary: To protect people, especially youth, from addiction, on the transfer of private property taken by eminent domain is appli- disease, and other health hazards of using tobacco, the Legislature cable if the petition of taking that initiated the condemnation proceed- shall use some Tobacco Settlement money annually for a comprehen- ing was filed on or after January 2, 2007. sive statewide tobacco education and prevention program using Centers for Disease Control best practices. Specifies some program components, emphasizing youth, requiring one-third of total annual funding for advertising. Annual funding is 15% of 2005 Tobacco Settlement payments to Florida, adjusted annually for inflation. Provides definitions. Effective immediately.

22 EmployerAdvocateFall2006 2006 FBU Candidate

Interviews Attorney General Candidate Bill McCollum (R) was the The Incumbent Fundraisers give FBU members a great featured luncheon speaker at the Sarasota Candidate opportunity to interact with members of the legislature. Interviews. Here we see Rep. Faye Culp (R-Tampa) and FBU member Jim Brainerd.

ounded in 1994, Florida Business United (FBU) takes responsibility for educating Florida’s business community on our state’s political environment. One of FBU’s primary functions is the organizing and conducting of candidate Finterviews. During the 2006 campaign season, FBU traveled the state holding candidate screenings in five cities (Orlando, Tampa, Ft. Lauderdale, Sarasota, and Tallahassee). FBU members met and interviewed over 100 candidates representing 56 Senate and House races. During each tour stop FBU held Incumbent Fundraisers for area legislators. This new addition to the candidate interview experience proved to be very popular for FBU members as well as legislators. In addition, FBU members were able to meet with several statewide candidates including: Bill McCollum, Tom Lee, Skip Campbell, Randy Johnson, and Alex Sink just to name a few.

Rep. Dennis Baxley (R-Ocala) enjoys some camaraderie with Rep. Mike Grant (R-Port Charlotte) took some time off from House District 76 candidate Garrett Richter (R) answering AFCD President Bill Hunter during the Orlando Incumbent his busy schedule to attend the Sarasota Incumbent Fund- questions during his interview in Tampa. Fundraiser. raiser. He is pictured here with FBU members Robert Schemel, President of American Eldercare and FAIA’s Kyle Ulrich.

FBU’s Candidate Interviews are a completely paperless Rep. Matt Meadows (D-Lauderhill) addresses the group Rep. Susan Goldstein (R-Sunrise), who scored a 100% on process. Members use laptops to view questionnaires, after receiving his 2006 Champion for Business Award at her 2006 AIF Voting Record, chats with AIF President and district maps, and other important election data. the Ft. Lauderdale Incumbent Fundraiser. Rep. Meadows CEO Barney Bishop. was honored for his work on passing legislation that eliminated the sales tax on machinery and equipment used in manufacturing. EmployerAdvocateFall2006 23 (continued from page 3) Appropriations Chair Joe Negron, Sen. Burt For up-to-date 2002 gubernatorial candidate Bill McBride, she Saunders and Rep. Everett Rice — withdrew information hails from the burgeoning Central Florida in order to provide a united front against area. During the last reporting cycle, Sink on business Campbell. To date, McCollum has raised $2.3 reported raising $86,000 for a total raised of $3 million (with $372,000 in in-kind contribu- issues, visit million (with $623,000 in in-kind contribu- tions). http://aif.com tions). Sink did not have a primary which Skip Campbell, a south Florida trial lawyer, allowed her to keep her money for the gen- spent 9 years in the Florida Senate where he eral. was a vocal leader for the minority party. T o date Campbell has raised a total of $1.7 million Attorney General (with $243,000 in in-kind contributions). What many consider the most important Cabinet race for the business community is undoubtedly the race for Attorney General. Current Agriculture Commissioner Charlie As the state’s “head attorney,” the person in Bronson’s race for re-election is small com- this position has the power to initiate legal pared to the other Cabinet races. It is expected actions against organizations and individuals. that Bronson will handily beat Miami Demo- Former Congressman Bill McCollum (R- crat Eric Copeland in November. Orlando) holds a small lead over Campbell in the polls due to his high name recognition Leslie Dughi is Chief Political Officer among voters. The Republicans originally at Associated Industries of Florida

opposing McCollum in the primary — House (e-mail: [email protected]).

PERMIT NO 904 NO PERMIT

P.O. BOX 784 TALLAHASSEE, FL 32302-0784 FL TALLAHASSEE, 784 BOX P.O.

TALLAHASSEE FL TALLAHASSEE

516 NORTH ADAMS STREET ADAMS NORTH 516 US POSTAGE PAID POSTAGE US

ssociated Industries of Florida Service Corporation Service Florida of Industries ssociated STANDARD PRESORTED