Agri-Business and the Environment

As the ONLY Representative serving on all four interconnected committees: Ag/Natural Resources Policy, Ag/Nat. Res. Appropriations, Economic Affairs, and the Select Committee on Water Policy, I am exceptionally involved and well-informed on the issues relating to the economic impact of Florida’s multi-billion dollar Agriculture industries as well as the challenges facing our fragile eco-system. Thinking “outside the box” is a pre-requisite to get all the concerned parties together to problem solve and create policies that strengthen our economy, create and maintain job growth, and respect the stewardship of our natural resources for future generations.

Affordable, Accessible Health Care

I am the sole physician-level health care provider in my caucus and have been appointed by the Speaker to serve as RANKING MEMBER on the HHS Health Access Subcommittee. My 32 years of hands-on experience providing primary-contact health care gives me a unique perspective among my colleagues in the House. It has made me the “go-to guy” when it comes to asking the critical questions about the bills presented before the subcommittee. I am dedicated to providing and protecting the availability and affordability of quality health care for ALL Floridians.

Public Safety and Law Enforcement

My legislative agenda in 2011, and in the current legislative session, has included targeted legislation to assure that law enforcement has the tools and policies in place to fight crime and protect all Floridians from criminals and predators. I was proud to have been named “2011 Legislator of the Year” by the property recovery unit of Florida Law Enforcement. In 2012, I have sponsored a bill to enhance to sentencing guidelines for those who prey upon our senior citizens. I consistently champion legislation that allows police, firefighters and other first-responders to provide the services that keep all of us safe and secure.