Troutmann: Economy Remains the Focus

Winter Haven Chamber’s Legislative and Public Policy Committee hosts Polk County lawmaker – by Justin Glover

WINTER HAVEN—Outgoing State Representative Baxter G. Troutman (left) recently provided an in-depth preview of his final legislative session, saying Florida’s economy remains “front and center” for lawmakers as they convene in Tallahassee.

Rep. Troutman spoke to members of the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce’s Legislative and Public Policy Committee. The Legislative and Public Policy Committee was formed by the Winter Haven Chamber to address the public policy concerns of local businesses at city, county and state levels.

At the meeting, Troutman said he expected lawmakers would be forced to trim another $1-3 billion off of an already scaled-back state budget. Unlike other issues addressed by the legislature which sometimes have limited impacts, the state’s budget is one in which, “we’re all affected,” according to Troutman.

Troutman, who is term-limited in 2010, serves as Chairman of the powerful House General Government Policy Committee and has represented Polk County since 2002. Look for his committee to be involved in several important debates next session, including another high priority for lawmakers and businesses: energy policy. Troutman said he believes the Legislature will pass a sweeping energy package aimed at finding more sustainable energy sources. At the same time, Troutman said he’ll make sure the final bill doesn’t overburden small businesses with huge costs for compliance.

“We’ll keep the ratepayer in mind,” Troutman said.

Property insurance reform will also demand attention in Tallahassee, and Troutman expects to again support a measure giving consumers more choices in insuring their homes and businesses. Earlier this year, the Legislature passed HB 1171 to allow property insurance consumers to choose whether to pay a higher premium for private coverage or opt for coverage through state-run Citizens Property Insurance. The bill was vetoed by Gov. Crist.

Of the measure, Troutman said, “If the consumer wants to pay, why should government get in the way?”

Polk County residents could also see the debate over commuter rail resurrected. Troutman said it’s possible House and Senate leaders will call for a Special Session in December to deal with public transportation and the long-debated issue of expanded gambling on Florida’s Seminole reservations.

Complete our legislative issues survey now at this link (survey closes at 3 p.m. today).

The Chamber’s next Government and Legislative Affairs Committee meeting is today, Wednesday, November 18 at 4 p.m. in the Chamber’s Coleman Auditorium. Sam Killebrew will present an overview of the status and challenge in addressing the Hometown Democracy amendment. The Committee will also review the results of a Chamber member legislative issues survey. Chamber members are invited to attend.