HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS LEADERS REACT TO GOVERNOR'S CALL FOR SPECIAL SESSION

HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS  MEMBERS’ STATEMENTS
ON GOVERNOR’S CALL FOR SPECIAL SESSION

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.  – Several Florida House Democratic Caucus members today applauded Governor Charlie Crist for calling a special session of the Legislature to address a state constitutional ban on near-shore drilling in Florida waters. The following are some of their remarks:

Representative Keith Fitzgerald (D-Sarasota) issued the following statement:

“I congratulate Governor Crist for his display of leadership in calling this much-needed special session,” said Representative Fitzgerald. “More than two months ago, I joined Democratic colleagues and other state leaders in urging the governor to take this action to, once and for all, forbid drilling off our shores and protect Florida’s beautiful coastline for future generations.”

Representative Rick Kriseman (D-St. Petersburg) offered the following remarks:

“I believe that placing amendments into our constitution ought to be a rare and special occurrence. This is such a time,” said Representative Kriseman. “For the sake of our beautiful state, its economy, environment, and our way of life, I am very pleased that Governor Crist has heeded our call for a special session and I look forward to empowering Floridians come November and protecting Florida forever.”

House Democratic Leader Franklin Sands (D-Weston) issued this statement:

“Since 2005, Florida House Democrats have proposed bans on drilling near Florida’s waters because the hazards to our way of life, our economy and environment are too great and the benefits of drilling in these precious areas are too few,” said Leader Sands. “On behalf of the entire Florida House Democratic Caucus, I extend my warm appreciation to the governor for his actions today, and I urge all Floridians to join us in supporting a robust near-shore drilling ban.”