House Democrats, led by Democratic Leader Dan Gelber (D-Miami Beach), Democratic Leader Pro Tempore Joyce Cusack (D-Deland) and State Reps. Mary Brandenburg (D-West Palm Beach), Rick Kriseman (D-St. Petersburg), Scott Randolph (D-Orlando), Debbie Boyd (D-Newberry) and Richard Machek (D-Delray Beach) applauded Governor Crist for hosting the first annual Global Climate Change Summit and signing a series of Executive Orders that set tough standards to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. House Democrats are eager and ready to begin work immediately on a package of reforms for the 2008 legislative session that will improve Florida's standing among those states with aggressive climate change and energy reform agendas. House Democrats offered the following comments regarding the Summit and the Executive Orders:
Democratic Leader Dan Gelber (D-Miami Beach): "It's about time we got serious about climate change and I applaud Governor Crist for leading the way. The House Democratic Caucus believes in promoting environmental responsibility, so we stand ready to support Governor Crist and his initiatives that will help move Florida to the forefront of states committed to reducing greenhouse gases. Many of these initiatives will need legislation to put the force of state law behind them, and we are ready to support those efforts in every way."
State Representative Scott Randolph (D-Orlando): "I applaud Governor Crist for initiating the Global Climate Change Summit and bringing together a diverse group of leaders to educate Floridians on how we can make Florida an Energy Smart State. The costs of most forms of energy, including gasoline, are increasing so fast right now many Florida families are unable to keep up. Investing in alternative forms of energy is not only the smart thing to do, but also good economic policy. House Democrats are eager to begin work on a legislative package that will codify into state law many of the good reforms adopted by Governor Crist today. We will challenge our colleagues in the Legislature to put these reforms on the Governor's desk next year and make these policies permanent in Florida."
State Representative Rick Kriseman (D-St. Petersburg): "As the Sunshine State, Florida should be at the forefront of reducing energy costs by exploring alternative energy technology. The increases in fuel and energy prices over the past year have not only affected Florida's residents and businesses at the pumps; they also translate into higher electricity rates and increased costs for other goods and services. I am proud of the work of Governor Crist in the area of energy reforms and his commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It is refreshing to see we have a Governor committed to making our environment cleaner and healthier. I look forward to working with Governor Crist and my colleagues in the Legislature to continue on this great path."
A Election '08 News Site:
For News And Commentary:
For Florida Election News See:
Political Talk For And By Political Junkies
Just Rumors The Rumor Mills
