The Melo Minute

The Melo Minute
April 2nd, 2021 — Easter Edition

Team Melo wishes you and your families a wonderful Easter!

The Latest in Tallahassee

Governor DeSantis Signed SB 72 Into Law

Governor DeSantis signed Senate Bill 72 into law on Monday, March 29th. The bill, entitled Civil Liability for Damages Relating to COVID-19, works to ensure that businesses have certain protections from litigation against them as a result of the pandemic.

For instance, SB 72 makes it so that if a plaintiff attempts to argue that a business did not adequately act in good faith — regarding the health and safety of their employees and customers — then the burden of proof is on the plaintiff to show that failure.

SB 72 appeared before the House last week and I voted in favor of its passage. I have filed similar legislation that works to protect businesses during the pandemic — HB 579. We need to ensure the prosperity of our businesses that are still reeling from COVID.


HB 1637 – Immokalee Water and Sewage District

This bill provides clarity on how Immokalee’s District Board of Commissioners is constituted. Historically, Board members have continued to serve past the expiration of their terms until a successor is appointed. HB 1637 amends the charter of the Immokalee Water and Sewer District by clarifying that members of the Board serve until the Governor appoints their successor.

By clarifying this process, HB 1637 will eliminate any confusion going forward when Immokalee attempts to secure federal grant funds to address local water and sewer issues.

When this bill came before the its final committee, the State Affairs Committee, it was unanimously voted on with 21 members in support of its passage.


Local Happenings

Immokalee Community Park is having an extravagant Easter celebration with an egg hunt, various fun activities, and the Easter Bunny appearing as a special guest. It’s from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. Kids should have their own basket for collecting eggs. The address for the event is 321 N. First St., Immokalee. For more information click here!

What We’re Reading…

FGCU, FWC Team up to Restore Lake Trafford Using Eelgrass

WINK News

Collier County Hires a New County Manager
Lynn Alexander

Vaccine Information

Florida Department of Health data reported that Collier County has vaccinated over 119,000 individuals and Hendry County has vaccinated over 5,700. Keep in mind that, according to U.S. census data from 2019, 33% of Collier County’s population are 65 years of age or older and that 14% of Hendry County’s population are 65 years of age or older.

If you or someone you know still needs to get a vaccine, here are some resources you can utilize:
You can pre-register for a vaccine through the State’s system by going to myvaccine.fl.gov, or by calling (866) 201-4885 if you’re in Collier County or (866) 201-6745 if you’re in Hendry County.
CVS website for scheduling an appointment.
Publix website for scheduling a vaccination.
Homebound seniors can get a vaccine by sending an email to HomeboundVaccine@em.myflorida.com

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Q&A’s

I have a great team here in HD80. We are always ready to help out.
If you have a question you would like for my team and I to address within The Melo Minute feel free to send an email to:

HDIST080@myfloridahouse.gov

Representative Lauren Melo
Florida House District 80