(The Center Square) — The Florida Legislature is gearing up for a special session beginning next week to insurance reform, protection of Jews from antisemitic attacks and other issues.
Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples and House Speaker Paul Renner, R-Palm Coast, issued a proclamation in late October for the special session, which will begin Monday and conclude on Thursday.
Renner issued an additional memorandum stating that several pressing issues need to be addressed by Florida lawmakers, including hurricane relief, efforts to lessen the cost of insurance and additional funding for students with unique abilities.
Additional resources that could be approved by lawmakers could assist Floridians affected by Hurricane Idalia, including debris removal and agricultural industry support. Insurance costs will also be on the agenda, with lawmakers aiming to lessen the financial burden and dedicate resources to address the backlog in applications for the My Safe Florida Home Program.
Funding for students with unique abilities could be increased, allowing more students to have the opportunity to access the Family Empowerment Scholarship – a program that serves students with disabilities.
Also on the special session agenda is the state of Florida’s support for Israel. Florida lawmakers want to formally express support for Israel to exist as a sovereign, independent nation while also supporting its right to defend itself from attacks carried out against it by the terrorist regime Hamas.
The Legislature will also be working towards implementing sanctions against Iran, which has been known to fund terrorist organizations like Hamas and Hezbollah. Sanctions would include ending any financial support — whether directly or indirectly — to Iran and any other entity that supports terrorism.
Lawmakers will also consider security measures and funding to help stem antisemitic hate crimes and violence against the Jewish community. Jewish day schools will also be given additional resources and infrastructure to improve security.
Gov. Ron DeSantis said in a news release when the special session was announced that he applauds and urges Florida lawmakers to take swift action in increasing sanctions against the Iranian regime.
“Following the horrific atrocities committed by Iranian-backed terrorist group Hamas against Israel, I am calling on the Florida Legislature to act swiftly to ensure our state does not send a penny to the Iranian terror state. I am glad to see the Legislature’s willingness to convene and address this along with other important issues for the state,” DeSantis said in the news release.