STATE OF FLORIDA PASSES BILL TO PROTECT MILITARY

The State of Florida loves the military and has expressed this in a recent legislation. They know how important this is to the State and the national security of our nation.

The Florida Legislature voted today in support of legislation that will make protection of the state’s military bases and missions a major state priority, state Sen. Don Gaetz said today.
“With the Obama Administration indicating that the military budget is under a thorough review, we may be facing what amounts to a mini-BRAC,” Gaetz, R-Niceville, a sponsor of the bill, said. “Florida needs to speak with one strong voice on behalf of our 21 bases and that’s what this bill does.”This legislation, co-sponsored by Sens. Durell Peaden, R-Crestview, and Mike Haridopolos, R-Merritt Island, will create the Florida Council on Military Base and Mission Support. The bill also authorizes the group to work with federal elected officials, the Pentagon and base-hosting communities to preserve and, if possible, expand the military presence in the state.The council will consist of nine unpaid members, three each appointed by the governor, president of the Senate and speaker of the House. The council will be staffed by the Governor’s Office of Trade, Tourism and Economic Development.“This bill helps maintain the economic value of the military in our area and its strength and security for the United States,” Peaden said.This legislation will also create several working groups comprised of business, military and community leaders throughout the state to focus on intrastate activities, competitive strategies, and public awareness, the Gaetz news release said. “Our military bases and their directly related industries bring $60 billion to Florida’s economy. ” said Gaetz, who is chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Florida’s Economy.Rep. Dave Murzin, R-Pensacola, is House sponsor of the companion legislation, which now goes to Gov. Charlie Crist for approval.“I thank Senator Gaetz for securing the passage of House Bill 7123 in the Florida Senate,” Murzin said. “Northwest Florida values its partnership with the military and we look forward to protecting its resources here and around the state.” Northwest Florida is home to Eglin Air Force Base, Tyndall Air Force Base, NAS Pensacola, Hurlburt Field, Duke Field, Whiting Field, the Naval Support Activity in Panama City, and soon will host the Army’s 7th Special Forces.