THE FLORIDA SENATE - COMMITTEES: Tallahassee? Florida 32399?1 100 Governmental Oversight and Accountability, Vice Chair Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development Children, Families, and Elder Affairs Cemmunications, Energy, and Public Utilities JOINT COMMITTEE: SENATOR FRANK ARTILES Joint Administrative Procedures Committee 40th District April 21, 2017 Dear President Negron, Seven years ago, I began my public service with one goal in mind, and that was to serve a cause greater than my own. Serving my constituents and improving their lives is why I serve. On many important issues, caring for the elderly, education and job creation, I have made it my personal mission to put others ?rst. It? the way I was raised, and the way I still choose to live my life today. As a Marine, this attitude was embodied in our motto: Semper Fidelis, or ?Always Faithful.? Be faithful to God, to country and to our fellow soldiers. As a father and husband, despite the daily demands of elected of?ce, I always keep the promises that I make to my two beautiful daughters, Bella and Giavanna, and my loving wife Aimee. I?m a fulfilled man, because of their unconditional love and support. It is clear to me my recent actions and words that I spoke fell far short of what I expect for myself, and for this I am very sciry. I apologize to my family and friends and I apologize to all of my fellow Senators and lawmakers. To the people of my district and all of Miami?Dado, I am sorry I have let you down and ask for your forgiveness. My actions and my presence in government is now a distraction to my colleagues, the legislative process, and the citizens of our great State. I am responsible and I am accountable and effective immediately, I am resigning from the Florida State Senate. It?s clear there are consequences to every action, and in this area, lwill need time for personal re?ection and growth. I leave this of?ce knowing that despite my shortcomings, I have fought hard to change the status quo while remaining true to myself. I?m grateful for those that have stood by my side, including my family, ?iends, and supporters. Serving my community in the Florida Legislature has been the honor of a lifetime and I do not leave this process I will discover ways to continue to serve my community in the ?iture. God bless the great stat- of Florida and our great country. REPLY TO: 13 13501 SW 128th Street, Unit115A, Miami, Florida 33186 (305) 252-4300 El 308 Senate Of?ce Building. 404 South Monroe StreetI Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1100 (850) 4876040 Senate's Website: JOE NEGRON ANITERE FLORES President of the Senate President Pro Tempore