Sarasota News Leader

10/19/2012

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Sarasota News Leader October 19, 2012 views have been positive, with many calling the Summit "the most collaborative" meeting they had ever attended. Some clear themes emerged. One: the need to maintain current levels of state health care funding, which has seen major cuts in the last few years. Another: the need to increase rev- enue by (for example) implementing an In- ternet sales tax. A third idea: Stop rejecting federal funds because of ideological oppo- sition. The Legislature has denied itself tens of millions of dollars in federal health care money because the funding was appropriated through the hated (by the Legislature) Afford- able Care Act. Page 37 Shea's team is working now to compile all the recommendations into a "blue book" that will be delivered to lawmakers in person at a legislative breakfast scheduled for Nov. 13. A representative from the governor's office will also be present. A personal story of substance abuse recovery is on the agenda as well that day. Shea hopes the organized priority list, as well as the direct community participation, will make it clear to lawmakers where the people of the Suncoast stand on some of the state's most pressing issues. Will they listen? We will find out next spring. Florida Senate President Mike Haridopolos speaks on the floor during the 2012 session. Photo cour- tesy of the Florida Senate

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