Good Morning!

week, our nation recognized National Police Week. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15th as Peace Officers’ Memorial Day and the week surrounding this date as National Police Week. In 1994, President Bill Clinton signed a law to have flags flown at half-staff in all government buildings on May 15th each year.

National Police Week occurs annually as a tribute to honor the law enforcement community and those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The week-long observance in Washington, DC attracts 25,000 to 40,000 individuals from across the United States for a unique opportunity to celebrate law enforcement officers and share respect for those who serve, those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, and the family members left behind.

Governor DeSantis exemplified the significance of this occasion by ordering flags to be flown at half-mast on May 15th in honor of the bravery and dedication of Florida’s law enforcement officers.

We extend our sincere appreciation to law enforcement officers for their commitment to keeping our communities safe and thank them for their bravery, sacrifice, and service.

Last week, Governor DeSantis signed HB 7063, an anti-trafficking bill aimed at combatting human trafficking and protecting vulnerable individuals. This legislation strengthens penalties for traffickers, expands resources for victim support services, and enhances coordination between law enforcement agencies to prevent and prosecute trafficking crimes.

To learn more about HB 7063 and other bills signed this week, please see the ‘Bill Action’ and ‘Statewide Update’ section below.

I consider it a great honor to represent District 19. Please share this link with your friends and family so they too, can sign up for the Mayfield Minute.

If you or someone you know needs my assistance, please do not hesitate to contact my office. My staff and I are here to serve you!

Bill Action by Governor DeSantis

Since the close of the 2024 Legislation Session, Governor DeSantis has signed 198 bills into law, vetoed two bills, 9 remain pending his action, and 104 have not yet been sent for his consideration.

Below you will find underlined links to recently signed bills and bills pending. If you have any difficulty navigating the Senate website, please contact my office at 321-409-2025 and we will assist you.

Upon receipt of a bill, the Governor has seven days to sign, veto, or take no action at which point the bill will automatically become law.

Bills signed by Governor DeSantis last week include:

HB 7063 – Anti-Human Trafficking

CS/CS/HB 1645 – Energy Resources

HB 7071 – Foreign Investments by the State Board of Administration

CS/CS/HB 1331 – Commodities Produced by Forced Labor

CS/CS/HB 1133 – Violations Against Vulnerable Road Users

CS/CS/SB 328 – Affordable Housing

HB 1023 – St. Lucie County

CS/CS/SB 994 – Student Transportation Safety

CS/CS/CS/HB 267 – Building Regulations

HB 5401 – Judges

CS/CS/CS/SB 382 – Continuing Education Requirements

CS/CS/HB 1567 – Qualifications for County Emergency Management Directors

CS/HB 793 – Coral Springs Improvement District, Broward County

CS/HB 867 – North River Ranch Improvement Stewardship District, Manatee County

HB 819 – Lehigh Acres Municipal Services Improvement District, Hendry and Lee Counties

Bills received and pending consideration include:

CS/HB 1291 – Preparation Programs

CS/CS/HB 1389 – Digital Voyeurism

CS/SB 1616 – Electronic Access to Official Records

CS/CS/SB 804 – Gaming Licenses and Permits

SB 92 – Yacht and Ship Brokers’ Act

CS/CS/CS/SB 892 – Dental Insurance Claims

HB 191 – Town of Orchid, Indian River County

CS/CS/CS/HB 275 – Offenses Involving Critical Infrastructure

CS/HB 415 – Pregnancy and Parenting Resources Website

HB 509 – Collier Mosquito Control District, Collier County

HB 691 – Town of Horseshoe Beach, Dixie County

CS/HB 1305 – Residential Tenancies

HB 1025 – Municipal Service District of Ponte Vedra Beach, St. Johns County

If you have an interest or concern regarding any of the above bills, you can also reach out to the Governor’s office directly here or contact my office at [email protected].

Statewide Update

Florida’s Fight Against Human Trafficking

Governor DeSantis has approved $4.9 million in the state budget to provide more emergency and support services for victims of human trafficking. Through this funding, the Department of Children and Families is establishing a $900,000 grant opportunity for law enforcement agencies across the state. The funding will ensure officers are equipped with the tools to identify and respond to human trafficking incidents effectively. This investment in training ensures that first responders are better prepared to address these complex situations.

This week Governor DeSantis signed HB 7063 into law which continues to develop and coordinate state and local responses to human trafficking. A significant part of the bill is the replacement of the National Trafficking Hotline with the Florida Human Trafficking hotline. Additionally, it includes changing awareness signs across the state to represent the Florida Human Trafficking Hotline.

Additional protections for minors from exploitation and the strengthening of law enforcement’s ability to address trafficking-related crimes are included in the legislation. For more information regarding HB 7063, click here.

Florida’s comprehensive approach to tackling human trafficking demonstrates a commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of society and holding perpetrators accountable. By investing in victim support, enhancing law enforcement training, raising community awareness, and enacting legislative measures, the state is leading the way in the fight against human trafficking.

For more resources for victims of human trafficking click here or call the Florida Human Trafficking Hotline at 855-FLA-SAFE.

Investing in Florida’s Military Communities

In a testament to Florida’s commitment to our military, Governor DeSantis has announced a $2.3 million grant to support military communities across the state. These grants allocated through the Defense Infrastructure Grant Program will support the economic growth of military communities in Florida and provide crucial resources to those protecting the nation.

The Space Coast Economic Development Commission will receive a grant in the amount of $82,500 and the City of Cocoa will receive a grant in the amount of $135,000. The funds received through the grant will be used for infrastructure improvements to the water distribution system and to increase the resiliency of the water distribution network serving Patrick Space Force Base and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

Since 2019, over $23.4 million has been granted into Florida’s military communities, addressing various needs from transportation to security, showcasing the state’s commitment to those who serve.

To learn more about Governor DeSantis’ announcement, click here.

Constituent of the Week

   Lance Corporal Carl Miller

In honor of Military Appreciation Month, we proudly recognize Lance Corporal Carl Miller, whose remarkable journey from combat heroism to post-military service exemplifies his incredible resilience and dedication to the community.

Lance Corporal Miller’s service began when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1968. He served as an 0311 Infantry Marine assigned to the 5th Marines, the 1st Marine Division shipped to Vietnam.

In February 1969, he was severely wounded by a mortar round, resulting in numerous life-threatening injuries. The attack left him completely immobilized, severely injuring his left arm at the shoulder.

While waiting for help, he was then shot at point-blank in an enemy attack, sustaining additional injuries in his left leg and hip. Miraculously, Lance Corporal Miller survived against the odds.

Transitioning to civilian life, he continued to serve, making significant contributions as a teacher, assistant principal, and college professor. In 2000, he and his wife Sue became residents of Brevard County, where his dedication to service only grew.

Lance Corporal Miller’s commitment to supporting veterans and youth is unwavering. He actively mentors JROTC students in Brevard County and serves as Commander of the Space Coast Chapter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart. Through this role, he annually honors local Purple Heart recipients at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center, embodying the spirit of courage and sacrifice.

As we commemorate Military Appreciation Month, we recognize United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal Miller for his selfless service, resilience, and ongoing dedication to empowering others. Thank you, Lance Corporal Miller, for your extraordinary contributions to our community and our nation.

District Highlights

  Thunder on Cocoa Beach

This weekend Brevard County hosted Thunder on Cocoa Beach, marking its 15th year on Florida’s Space Coast.

What began as a passion project between four local friends has evolved into a beloved tradition, drawing racing enthusiasts and families from across the state for a thrilling weekend at Cocoa Beach.

Attendees of Thunder on Cocoa Beach gathered to watch the incredible races. The 3-day event showcased offshore powerboat racing, captivating attendees with the racers’ speed.

This year, Thunder on Cocoa Beach proudly partnered with Freedom Fighters as its designated charity. Freedom Fighters empowers and supports survivors of human trafficking, providing them with resources, advocacy, and a safe haven as they rebuild their lives.

By raising awareness and funds for this important cause, Thunder on Cocoa Beach aims to support local charities like Freedom Fighters in their efforts to strengthen and support Brevard County.

For more information about the Thunder on Cocoa Beach, click here.

Space Coast Tech Hackathon

This weekend, Florida Tech’s Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Innovative Design (CAMID) in Palm Bay hosted the Space Coast’s first ever Tech Hackathon. The event brought together students, young engineers, and industry experts providing them with opportunities to solve challenges regarding hardware, aerospace, defense, and more.

Florida Tech’s Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Innovative Design (CAMID) in Palm Bay was established to create pathways for entrepreneurs and students studying technology, space, design, and other fields.

Organizer of the Tech Hackathon, Spencer MacDonald, emphasized the intense competition brings diverse experience, with participants from collegiate backgrounds, military personnel, engineering, and design fields.

The first-place winner earned $3,000 and the runner up received $2,000.

To learn more about Florida Tech’s Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Innovative Design, click here.

Upcoming Events

Space Coast Honor Flight to Washington D.C.

Space Coast Honor Flight (SCHF) is preparing for its upcoming trip to Washington D.C., where World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam Veterans will have the opportunity to visit their respective war memorials. These journeys are a profound way to express gratitude to the brave individuals who have fought for our freedoms.

The 78th flight, sponsored by Wuesthoff Brevard Hospice & Palliative Care, will take place on Saturday, June 8th. The flight will carry four Women Veterans from Brevard County, along with six employees from Wuesthoff Brevard Hospice & Palliative Care. The trip will feature a visit to the Military Women’s Memorial at Arlington to pay tribute to the invaluable contributions of women Veterans.

If you are a Veteran or you know a Veteran who may be interested in participating in the upcoming flights, you can reach out to SCHF by email or by calling 321-877-1828. 

Memorial Day Events in Brevard County

As Memorial Day approaches, Brevard County prepares to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. These events provide an opportunity for the community to come together and pay tribute to Veterans who have courageously served their nation.

Below is a list of Memorial Day Observance events happening in the area:

Memorial Day Observance

• Date/Time/Location: Monday, May 27th at 9:30 a.m. at Brevard Veterans Memorial Center (400 S Sykes Creek Pkwy) in Merritt Island
• Details: LTC Tim Thomas (RET) will serve as Keynote Speaker, Dean Schaff, VMC Vice President will serve as emcee
• Contact: For more information call 321-452-1776 x 5 or click here

Cape Canaveral National Cemetery Memorial Day Observance

• Date/Time/Location: Monday, May 27th at 10:00 a.m. at Cape Canaveral Cemetery (5525 US 1) in Mims
• Details: Captain William Toti, USN (RET) will serve as Keynote Speaker, Esther Bower, Fox 35 Reporter, will serve as emcee
• Contact: For more information, call 321-403-0128 or click here

19th Annual Memorial Day Tribute

• Date/Time/Location: Monday, May 27th from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Riverfront Park (401 Riveredge Blvd) in Cocoa
• Details: Every year the City of Cocoa takes time to honor fallen Veterans with a Guest Speaker, Special Flag Folding Ceremony, 21-gun salute, the playing of the taps, a moment of silence, entertainment and more
• Contact: For more information, contact Leisure Services at 321-639-3500 or click here

Honor America, Inc

• Date/Time/Location: Monday, May 27th at 11:00 a.m. at Liberty Bell Museum (1601 Oak Street) in Melbourne
• Details: Military Veterans will be honored for their sacrifice and service. Speakers will include Donn Weaver, long-time patron of the VMC, and Captain Jason Schneider, Commander of the Naval Radiance Testing at Cape Canaveral
• Contact: For more information, contact Rabbi Sanford Olshansky, ([email protected] / 321-704- 0702) or click here

Contact Information

Melbourne Office 

900 East Strawbridge Avenue

Melbourne, FL 32901

(321) 409-2025

Tallahassee Office

400 Senate Office Building

404 South Monroe Street

Tallahassee, FL 32399-1100

(850) 487-5019

Staff:

Yvette Campbell

Kelli Lane

Samantha Scaringe