Florida Pension Changes Rooted in ALEC Model Legislation
Ashley Lopez: A new plan that would overhaul the state's pension system can be traced back to the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), The Palm Beach Post reported this week.
Religious Groups, Unions Join Fight Against Anti-Sick Pay Bill
Ashley Lopez: Religious groups and unions in Florida are fighting a bill that would prohibit local governments from mandating earned paid sick time for workers.
In Push to Close State Tax Loopholes, Gov. Rick Scott the Obstacle
Ashley Lopez: Plans to close tax loopholes in the state might not come to fruition, because a bill that would close those loopholes doesn't have the expressed support of Gov. Rick Scott.
EPA Cuts Pollution Deal With State Officials
Ashley Lopez: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection came to an agreement this week on new standards for water pollution in the state. The deal pleases the state's business community — but outrages environmentalists.
Experts, Advocates Warn Ethics Reform Bill Too Weak
Ashley Lopez: Organizations ranging from tea party groups to the liberal Progress Florida have banded together to oppose a bill intended to improve the state's ineffective ethics rules. The ethics bill doesn't go far enough, these groups say.
Alleged Allied Veterans ‘Mastermind’ Spread Money Statewide
Steve Miller: Will Florida politicians give back donations from Kelly Mathis, who the federal government says is behind the $300 million scam?