As the 2009 legislative session continues, the 11-member Duval Delegation is in Tallahassee with plenty on their plate, including everything from education funding to alternative energy. Today, the Daily Record continues a series of question and answer sessions with members of the Delegation, all of whom were sent the same questions. We continue with State Rep. Mia Jones.
What district do you represent and what area of Northeast Florida is that?
House District 14, which includes areas north and west of the city and Baldwin.
What are the two biggest issues facing Northeast Florida this session and why?
The two biggest issues facing Northeast Florida this session would have to be the severe cuts in the areas of education and healthcare. The anticipated cuts facing our education system will require our school district to choose between extracurricular activities (football, basketball and baseball) and reducing staffing levels by releasing teachers and teacher aides. While in the area of healthcare our enrollment numbers are increasing and cuts to programs will have to be considered. Our only “saving grace” is President Obama’s stimulus package and the dollars that we may qualify for.
What is the biggest issue facing you and your constituents?
The biggest issue facing me and my constituents would have to be the severe cuts in education and healthcare.
Given the state’s economic situation, are you optimistic or pessimistic heading into the session and why?
I am optimistic that we will rise to the occasion and work together to do what is in the best interest of all Floridians. That includes taking full advantage of the Stimulus funds provided to our state by our president and Congress.
What committees are you on?
I have the pleasure of serving on the following committees this session:
• Health Care Appropriations
• Pre K-12 Policy Committee
• Economic Development Policy Committee
• Agriculture and Natural Resources Policy Committee
What is the number one concern you hear from your constituents?
Daily I am hearing from my constituents their dissatisfaction with the proposed cuts to education and the negative impact that will result from these actions.
What can be done at the state level to help the foreclosure problem in the Jacksonville area?
First we need to make sure that as many people as possible who qualify for the Mortgage Modification Program take advantage of the opportunity to get the families back on a firm foundation.
Second, there are numerous bill associated with this issue that will work their way through the system during session. Including but not limited to HB 875, which I introduced and provides protection to renters who are living in homes that are being foreclosed on, by making them a party to the foreclosure and requiring that they be notified of the action and given 60 days to vacate.
Who are you living with while in session?
I will be living alone during session.