By Peter Schorsch
Sixty Days Newsletter
February 18, 2022
After more than five hours of debate, the House approved a bill that would create a 15-week abortion ban. The bill (HB 5), modeled after a similar ban in Mississippi, provides no exceptions for rape or incest unless the life of the mother is in danger. In the event of a “fatal fetal abnormality,” a woman seeking an abortion must seek the certification of two doctors. The final vote, as expected, broke along party lines with only two members crossing the aisle — Republican Rep. Rene Plasencia voted against the ban and Democratic Rep. James Bush voted for it. Passage didn’t come without a fight, however futile. Opponents hosted countless rallies and protests, many featuring high-ranking Democratic leaders. Critics packed into committee rooms, paraded on social media and flooded the phone lines of lawmakers. The fate of abortion access is now in the hands of the Republican-controlled Senate, where passage is almost certain. Here’s your nightly rundown.
‘Heir apparent.’ U.S. Rep. Al Lawson wants to meet one-on-one with Gov. Ron DeSantis to discuss his proposed congressional map.
Better now? Senators amended a key water bill (SB 2508) in an attempt to assuage concerns from critics — including DeSantis.
Tick tock. The Senate passed a bill (SB 736) that would consolidate the period of homeowners could sue over construction defects, setting it at seven years.
Smash and grab. The full Senate OK’d a bill (HB 1511) upping criminal penalties for organized retail theft.
Jackpot! The Senate voted overwhelmingly in favor of a bill (HB 159) that would shield lottery winners’ personal information from public record.
Insta-what? With no movement in the House and none for months in the Senate, the future is grim for legislation (SB 480/HB 361) requiring social media literacy training in public schools.
Speedy delivery. A House panel advanced a bill (HB 559) that would expedite temporary work licenses to military spouses who hold an out-of-state certification.
Smooth sailing. The House Commerce Committee unanimously advanced a boating safety bill (HB 701) named for Ethan Isaacs, who died in a boating accident in 2020.
Sleeves up. A bill (HB 1209) that would allow pharmacy technicians to continue administering certain vaccines cleared its second House committee.
Privacy, please. A bill (HB 699) that would keep homeless individuals’ data from becoming public record is heading to the full House for a vote.
Snuff it. Legislation (HB 105) allowing local governments to regulate smoking at city and county parks and beaches is ready for the House floor.
Burying the hatchet. After a sit-down with the House Speaker, Rep. Cord Byrd apologized to Rep. Travaris McCurdy for his ‘unhinged’ outburst.
Very sad for women.