Good afternoon and Happy Friday!

First things first, we have a collective bargaining session scheduled for Thursday, May 13, 2021, at 11:00 a.m., to be held at the 111 Building on the 18th floor, 18-3&4. If you cannot attend, we will send out an Info email the following day which will set out specifically what was discussed.

On a sad note, we lost two more Correctional Officers to COVID. Officers Alexey Aguilar and David Jean-Baptiste tragically lost their lives due to COVID. They were beloved members of the Corrections and PBA family, and will be sorely missed. Our prayers go out to their families during this incredibly difficult time.

It is a reminder that no matter how clear we may think we are of this pandemic, it is not over yet. We need to remain vigilant, and we encourage you to get vaccinated.

May they rest in peace.

Finally, with the legislation session over, we were able to fend off multiple attacks on FRS and unions. We will continue our ongoing efforts in Tallahassee. We wanted to thank the Governor Ron DeSantis for inviting the PBA to the signing of House Bill 1 (Combating Public Disorder Act) which increases penalties for existing crimes committed during a violent assembly, and protects the communities’ law enforcement officers, and victims of these types of acts.

Additionally, the State of Florida approved the annual budget, but the details of how certain budget items will be implemented have not yet been determined, but we will keep you informed as those discussions progress.

As always, stay safe!

Steadman Stahl