from staff
The 60-day 2011 legislative session began March 8. Rep. Daniel Davis, a Republican representing District 13, is a member of the Duval and Clay Legislative Delegation.
Davis, executive director of the Northeast Florida Builders Association, was appointed in September to the seat held by Jennifer Carroll, who was elected lieutenant governor.
The Daily Record will feature legislators during the session.
What is the biggest issue facing Northeast Florida this session?
Clearly the biggest issue facing our citizens in Northeast Florida is the economy. I am working every day in Tallahassee to reduce government regulation and protect Florida’s small businesses.
What will your role be in resolving it?
I currently sit on the Insurance and Banking Committee, Energy and Utilities Committee, Healthcare Appropriations Committee and the Education Committee. Each of these committees plays a critical role in helping our economy to recover. Whether it was tort reform, predictable utility rates, proper health care or growing a skilled work force, I have supported business-minded legislation and believe we have made a difference in a tough economy.
What bill are you sponsoring or supporting that you consider most significant?
I have two bills with “life” left in them. I am sponsoring the building code bill and the privatization of certifications of child welfare workers. The building code bill aligns federal and state building and fire codes in an effort to streamline the construction process.
The privatization of certifications will save the state $1.4 million annually and will create a more efficient productive certification process.
Do you have support for them?
So far. In Tallahassee, success or failure can change in a moment’s notice. Nothing is certain until the gavel falls the last day of session.
What’s the hottest legislative issue this week?
Drug-screening of potential and existing beneficiaries of temporary state assistance and restricting the use of tax dollars in abortion procedures.