Advocacy
Business Watch is an advocate for local governments and the contractors that serve them.
Florida’s local governments need to be financially healthy to serve as an economic driver. Each year, cities and counties spend tens of billions of dollars in the private sector, buying everything from park benches to paperclips. Government contracts are the engines that support Business Watch companies, shareholders and employees.
Business Watch supports investments conducive to creating a positive business climate, including improving infrastructure necessary for trade, addressing water quality and supply issues, repair and expansion of transportation systems, private property rights and adequately funding education including workforce training.
Business Watch supports tax policies that promote a balanced approach to cuts and revenue. It is in everyone’s best interest to both save money and consider new or increased revenue sources.
Business Watch supports the citizen’s right to local self-government, individual community standards and the unique services local governments provide. Business Watch strongly support the concept of local decision making.
The Business Watch team truly understands the importance of the relationship between local government and the businesses that serve them. Their advocacy on behalf of their members with the Legislature has not only been beneficial to Jones Edmunds, but allowed us to better serve our clients.
2023 & 2024 Legislative Information
In odd numbered years, the Legislature meets between March and May. The 2023 session has been held.
In even numbered years, the Legislature meets between January and March. The 2024 session is scheduled for January 9 through March 8. Committee meetings will be held the weeks of Sept. 18 (House only), Oct. 9, Oct. 16, Nov. 6, Nov. 13, Dec. 4 and Dec. 11.
Before any bill becomes a law, it must pass both chambers and be signed by the Governor. Most new laws take effect July 1 of that year.
Leadership for 2023 & 2024
Florida House of Representatives: Speaker Paul Renner; Flagler & part of St. Johns County
Florida Senate: President Kathleen Passidomo; Collier, Hendry and part of Lee County