A Record of Results for Orange County
I have built a legislative record defined by action, accountability, and a steadfast commitment to improving the quality of life for families across Orange County and throughout Florida. During my years of service, I have championed policies that protect our environment, strengthen public safety, support veterans and families, expand access to education and healthcare, and safeguard the dignity and rights of survivors. My work reflects a governing style rooted in transparency, collaboration, and compassion – always guided by the needs of the communities I am honored to serve.
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP & WATER PROTECTION
I have long been recognized as one of Florida’s strongest voices for environmental protection. My legislative efforts have secured historic investments and long-term safeguards for our water systems, natural lands, and coastal resources.
Unprecedented Funding for the Everglades
I have played an instrumental role in securing $550 million for the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan, one of the largest environmental restoration efforts in the United States. This funding supports flood control, reduces harmful discharges, preserves wildlife habitat, and safeguards the water supply for millions of Floridians.
She also helped secure an additional $64 million for the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir – a critical project designed to improve water storage capacity and reduce blue-green algae blooms that harm coastal communities.
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Water Quality & Infrastructure Improvements
Recognizing the urgent need to address pollution and aging stormwater systems, I helped secure a $35 million increase to the Water Quality Grant Program, bringing total funding to $235.8 million. These funds help counties and municipalities implement stormwater upgrades, nutrient-reduction projects, and infrastructure improvements that protect drinking water and aquatic ecosystems.
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Land Conservation & Forever Florida Renewal
I have been a champion for preserving Florida’s natural lands, helping secure $528.6 million for statewide land acquisition and management, including $229.3 million for the Forever Florida program—its largest investment in 16 years. I also helped establish a statewide greenway corridor to protect large animals and preserve critical habitats for species such as the Bald Eagle, ensuring that vital wildlife pathways and conservation areas remain safeguarded for future generations.
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Florida State Parks: Investment in Natural Heritage
To strengthen the state’s outdoor recreation system, I helped secure $50 million in dedicated funding for infrastructure improvements, resource management, ADA accessibility upgrades, and critical maintenance projects across Florida’s state parks. These investments preserve the beauty of Florida’s natural destinations while boosting tourism and recreation.
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Coastal & Marine Protection
I have sponsored multiple bills supporting Florida’s fragile coastal ecosystems. My legislation created a statewide seagrass restoration initiative, designed to reverse the decline of seagrass beds – vital to water quality, coastal resilience, fisheries, and endangered species like manatees. By investing in new technology and restoration science, my work helps protect the long-term health of Florida’s coastal environment.
SUPPORTING VETERANS, FIRST RESPONDERS & FAMILIES
Care for Retired Police Dogs
I passed legislation ensuring that retired K-9 officers receive the veterinary care and financial support they deserve after years of devoted service. These highly trained dogs protect our communities, assist in critical investigations, and often serve well beyond standard duty hours. My legislation guarantees they are treated with dignity in retirement by helping cover medical expenses and supporting the families who care for them.
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Veteran Employment & Training
I sponsored legislation that expands job-training programs, employment pathways, and access to benefits for veterans and their spouses. My work recognizes the sacrifices made by military families and helps ease the transition into civilian careers. By strengthening workforce support, I am ensuring that veterans have the tools, recognition, and opportunities they deserve.
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Tax Exemptions for Essential Family Products
I co-sponsored legislation eliminating the sales tax on diapers and incontinence products—everyday necessities that place a significant financial burden on parents, seniors, and caregivers. This tax relief helps families meet essential needs with greater affordability and dignity, especially those living on fixed or limited incomes.
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Paid Family Leave Support
I co-sponsored legislation advancing paid family-leave insurance so workers can take time off during critical family, medical, or caregiving situations without sacrificing financial stability. My efforts support working families, protect caregivers, and ensure that no Floridian must choose between their paycheck and their loved ones.
Public Safety, Justice Reform & Victim Protection
Combatting Human Trafficking
I have been a steadfast advocate in the fight against human trafficking, sponsoring multiple pieces of legislation focused on prevention, enforcement, and survivor support. My efforts include requiring informational materials in locations where individuals may be at risk, broadening law enforcement tools to identify trafficking operations, and expanding resources for survivors seeking recovery and justice. Through this work, I have helped bring statewide visibility to trafficking dangers while empowering vulnerable individuals to access help and protection.
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Stronger Penalties for Violent Crimes
Recognizing gaps in Florida’s criminal statutes, I sponsored legislation to increase penalties for the unlawful disposal of a deceased person – a crime that has long been under-addressed despite the profound harm it inflicts on families and communities. My reforms close loopholes, elevate the seriousness of the offense, and ensure that individuals who commit such acts face consequences that reflect the gravity of their actions. This work supports justice for victims and provides families with greater accountability.
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Anti-Hazing Measures
Committed to protecting students across Florida, I supported strengthened anti-hazing laws aimed at preventing dangerous and abusive conduct within student organizations. My advocacy increases accountability for individuals and institutions involved in hazing incidents and encourages a culture of responsibility and transparency on campuses. These measures help safeguard students and ensure that institutions take hazing risks seriously.
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Protection for Victims of Mass Violence
I championed reforms to safeguard the dignity and privacy of survivors and families affected by mass violence. My legislation strengthens privacy protections for public records related to these incidents, ensuring that sensitive information is shielded from exploitation. By prioritizing the well-being of victims and their loved ones, I have advanced a compassionate and respectful approach to public disclosure laws.
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Sexual Assault Kit (SAK) Retention Reform
I sponsored legislation (Miya’s Law) to modernize Florida’s standards for the storage, handling, and retention of sexual offense evidence kits, extending the preservation period to 50 years. This reform ensures that critical evidence is maintained consistently and remains accessible to support long-term investigations and prosecutions. I also supported legislation eliminating the statute of limitations for survivors of sexual assault to report the crime, ensuring that victims can seek justice on their own timeline without legal barriers. Together, these measures strengthen protections for survivors and enhance the state’s ability to hold offenders accountable.
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Standardized long-term retention
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Anonymous storage options
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Extended retention timelines
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Clearer protocols for chain of custody
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Ensuring survivors have the time and autonomy to decide whether to proceed with law enforcement
These measures support survivors on their own timeline – not the system’s – and help ensure they have control over when and how justice moves forward.
CONSUMER PROTECTIONS & COMMUNITY WELLBEING
Catalytic Converter Theft Prevention
In response to the sharp increase in catalytic converter thefts across Florida, I sponsored legislation that strengthens reporting and documentation requirements for the sale and transfer of these parts. My legislation improves law enforcement tracking, increases penalties for illegal possession and resale, and closes loopholes exploited by organized theft rings. These reforms help protect residents, reduce property crime, and hold offenders accountable.
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Lodging Standards & Consumer Safety
I sponsored legislation raising safety and cleanliness standards for lodging establishments, from hotels to short-term rentals. My work strengthened inspection protocols, improved transparency for consumers, and ensured that facilities meet clear safety expectations. These reforms protect travelers, support responsible operators, and create a safer, more trustworthy lodging environment for residents and visitors alike.
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Guardianship Reform
As a longtime advocate for seniors and vulnerable adults, I championed reforms to Florida’s guardianship system that increase oversight, prevent abuse, and strengthen accountability for guardians. My legislation enhances reporting requirements, improves transparency in financial management, and empowers families with better safeguards. These protections ensure that individuals under guardianship receive care with dignity, honesty, and proper oversight.
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POW/MIA Memorial Recognition
I sponsored legislation establishing the POW/MIA Vietnam Veterans Bracelet Memorial, honoring service members who were taken prisoner or never returned home. The memorial serves as a permanent and meaningful tribute to their sacrifice, preserving their stories and ensuring that future generations recognize the courage and loss endured by these heroes and their families.
EDUCATION, CHILDREN & SENIORS
Reading Achievement Initiative (RAISE)
I championed the RAISE program to address Florida’s literacy challenges by expanding individualized tutoring, structured reading instruction, and early intervention for struggling readers. I ensured teachers received specialized, evidence-based training and that schools had the tools and resources necessary to implement proven literacy strategies. By providing students with a strong reading foundation early on, this initiative helps prevent learning gaps, supports long-term academic success, and gives every child the opportunity to thrive in school and beyond.
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School Safety & Emergency Alert Systems
I sponsored legislation to modernize emergency alert and communication systems in public schools, strengthening campus preparedness and improving response times during critical incidents. My work established uniform safety protocols across districts, enhanced coordination with local law enforcement, and ensured that schools have real-time communication tools to protect students, teachers, and staff. These measures help create safer learning environments and give families confidence that their children are protected while at school.
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Support for Children With Developmental Delays
I advanced legislation to expand access to developmental screenings, early intervention programs, and family support services. By identifying delays early, children can receive timely therapies and educational support, which significantly reduces long-term learning challenges. These programs also provide parents and caregivers with guidance, resources, and confidence during crucial developmental stages, ensuring that every child has the best chance to reach their full potential.
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Alzheimer’s & Dementia Education
I led statewide efforts to expand Alzheimer’s and dementia awareness, strengthening public education on early detection, caregiving strategies, and community resources. My legislation helps families access critical information and support services, encourages early screening, and fosters understanding and empathy for aging-related cognitive challenges. By increasing awareness and support, we empower families and communities to provide better care and improve quality of life for those affected by these conditions.
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Investment in Nursing Education & Workforce Development
I secured a $30 million appropriation for the new Lake Nona UCF College of Nursing, helping to expand Florida’s capacity to train the next generation of highly skilled nurses. This investment supports state-of-the-art simulation labs, modern classroom facilities, and increased enrollment opportunities at a time when Florida faces a critical nursing shortage. Strengthening our nursing workforce not only enhances patient care statewide but also builds long-term healthcare resilience for our communities.
ECONOMIC GROWTH & SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT
State Small Business Credit Initiative
I played a key role in supporting the rollout of the State Small Business Credit Initiative, which delivered more than $202 million in loans and investments to Florida’s small businesses. My efforts helped expand access to capital for startups, minority-owned businesses, and local employers that historically struggled to secure financing. By strengthening this program, I helped fuel job creation, encourage entrepreneurship, and promote long-term economic growth across communities throughout the state.
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Tourism Marketing & Statewide Economic Strength
I supported the use of Tourist Development Tax dollars to strengthen Florida’s film and television production industry - a sector that generates more than $1 billion annually. This investment helps attract high-quality productions, create jobs, and expand opportunities for local creative professionals across the state. I also secured appropriations that resulted in the Holocaust Museum receiving $5 million for its new Orlando facility, supporting historical education, cultural preservation, and meaningful community engagement.