Working to Improve our Education System

As an education and child advocate for over 20 years, I believe that the safety and security of our children is paramount.  Before our children can learn, first and foremost they must feel safe.  That is why I authored and sponsored the Anti-Bully bill that passed and was signed by Governor Charlie Crist in 2007.  Our legislation became a model for other states and was noted by Bully Police USA as the best in the nation.  Although our education system continues to get better every year, there is no doubt we still have work to do.  We must do a better job of attracting the best and brightest teachers and principals to our schools.  We must reward excellence!  I will also continue to work to fine tune our accountability standards and promote more options and choices for our children.  If I have learned anything as a mother of three children who attended our public schools, I’ve learned that there isn’t one formula for success.  Every child can learn if given the right opportunity and the right teacher.

Revitalizing Florida’s Economy

Small businesses are the backbone of Florida’s economy and account for over 90% of the workforce.  We must work to make our state a place where once again, we attract investment, corporate re-locations, and clean industry so that once again Florida’s job growth will be the envy of the nation.  The entrepreneurial spirit that you and I have grown to love in Florida for so many years hasn’t gone away, but the climate that used to foster millions of American’s to invest in small business is in danger due to high insurance costs and rising taxes.  If we work together, we can change that and get our state’s economy moving again.

Protecting Our Natural Resources

I have represented the Coastal communities of House District 91 for over 5 years.  As a native Floridian, I grew up on South Florida’s coast from Juno Beach to Hollywood Beach.  I understand how critical it is to preserve our beaches, not only because it is what makes Florida unique, but because our beaches are a vital resource in our economy.  Florida is filled with environmental treasures.  They must be protected in a responsible way so that future generations can enjoy their beauty as much as we have.   I will continue to promote policies that recognize the fragile nature of Florida’s environment and its power in rebuilding our economy.

Keep Taxes Low and Reduce Government Spending

As Chair of Finance & Tax in the Florida House I have stood against every proposed tax increase. During these challenging economic times, increasing taxes on millions of hard working Floridians is just simply wrong and is counter – productive to the positive steps we are taking to get the economic engine of Florida moving again.  Government must reduce its spending and be a partner with Florida’s families and small businesses, not an impediment to progress and investment.  Nothing is more important than focusing on limiting spending and building our economy and jobs for Florida’s future.  I will maintain my commitment to this philosophy as I continue in service as your next State Senator.