Legislative Update March 15

Colleagues,

This past week of the legislative session was again dominated by Florida’s budget and deficit concerns. Although the economic forecast projects some improvements in our economy, Florida legislators are still expecting to be facing a 3.2 billion dollar short fall this session. The House is expected to submit a preliminary budget this Tuesday which is likely to result in controversies, concerns and debates for programs that have not been included. As reductions in Medicaid costs are a high priority this session, our lobbyist, Allison Carvajal, is working with Senator Mike Bennett to identify the cost benefits of Nurse Practitioner practice. This is a promising approach for our bill and ongoing professional and practice issues.

In the coming week, Ms. Carvajal will also be meeting with Rep. Nick Thompson, Chair of Health Policy Regulations Committee to encourage the placement of our bill on the agenda this session. This is a strategically important week in which your voice is needed! If you have already called or emailed Rep Nick Thompson….do so again! If you have not yet called or emailed Rep. Thompson on this issue, do so this week! We need your voices to be heard so that our bill can be heard!! Your message can be brief and concise: SB 188/ HB 677 is a priority for improving access to cost effect health care for Florida’s residents.

Controlled Substance Prescribing by ARNPs- SB 188/ HB 677 by Senator Mike Bennett and Representative Juan Carlos Zapata.

Contact Representative Nick Thompson:

Representative Nick Thompson (nick.thompson@myfloridahouse.gov)

Suite 208; 2120 Main Street, Fort Myers, FL. 33901-3010

Phone: (239) 533-2411

Or

1301 The Capitol; 402 S. Monroe St., Tallahassee, FL. 32399-1300

Phone: (850) 488-1541