In response to the Orlando Sentinel’s endorsement of my opponent for the District 42 state House of Representatives seat, I’d like to make the point that I have addressed important statewide issues and accomplished local goals.
I was instrumental in passing the Granny Flat Bill, which provides tax breaks for Floridians who expand their homes to care for elderly parents or grandparents. I passed the Good Samaritan Act, which protects emergency workers from civil liability in the course of emergency responses.
If re-elected, I am committed to continuing my efforts to pass vital legislation, such as the Suicide Prevention Bill. Annually, Florida records more suicides than homicides.
In addition, I plan to continue to fight for more state dollars to provide transportation services for seniors with disabilities. I will promote funding for respite-care centers for seniors with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. These are critical life-value issues.
Locally, I have been diligent in my efforts to help restore lakes. Funding for the Harris Chain so far has totaled more than $600,000. Funding for the restoration of Lake Panasoffkee is nearly $10 million. The natural water resources of Lake, Sumter and Marion counties are vital to the area, and I will fight to keep drinking water local and not allow it to be diverted to coastal communities.
In cooperation with the city of Leesburg, I helped secure $500,000 in funding for its magnificent new library.
If re-elected, I am looking to working in committees involving health care, elderly issues and water resources.
REP. HUGH GIBSON
DISTRICT 42
THE VILLAGES
