As many of you know, the Florida legislature, through bills in both the Senate (SB 1296) and House (HB 995) are trying to bust public sector unions like FUSA (though exempting first responder unions) and diminish your rights under the Constitution (freedom to associate) and the Florida Constitution (the right to collectively bargain). Over 200 union members, including FUSA, joined in Tallahassee to try and stop SB 1296 while still in committee. Despite vocal testimony of approximately 100 members, another 100+ waiving in opposition to the bill, and peeling two Republicans over to vote NO while two others strategically stayed home, the bill passed 10- 8.
Once more unto the breach, dear friends!
FEA and UFF have sent out messages this morning alerting everyone that the SB 1296 will be heard on the floor tomorrow (Thursday) We need everyone responding and letting both your own senator and other key senators they need to support Florida’s workers and to Oppose SB 1296.
Here are some tools to take action on SB 1296
- Call senators and ask them to oppose SB 1296—with the bill now being heard on Thursday, it is essential that senators hear from you TODAY. We’ve documented more than 1,300 phone calls since last Tuesday!
- Please help us spread the word- make sure you share the call link with three people you know and have them make calls as well!
- Here are some additional, targeted talking points
- Write to your Senator and tell them to vote no on SB 1296. You can identify your Senator by entering your address on the Senate’s Find Your Legislators page. When their information appears, click on “Email this Senator.” You can adapt the draft text from the FEA’s contact form for your message. Be sure to identify yourself as their constituent and use your personal, non-FIU email address.
- From your phone: Join the SB 1296 text list here (text SB1296 to be added) — we may have to turn around and do this again for the House bill.
- Independent Senate analysis found serious constitutional issues with the bill (page 19-23)
Faculty United Service Association 