2020 State Legislative Priorities

Issues to Support
We support legislation and programs that benefit municipalities and assist in implementing services to
meet the needs of our citizens and improve their quality of life including:
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Provide full funding of the Florida State and Local Housing Trust Funds and ensure those funds
be used exclusively for housing.
Repeal the state preemption of vacation rental property laws to allow local governments to
regulate such properties to protect the health and welfare of their residents, visitors and
businesses.
Allow pension plans to use a more conservative mortality table than what is used by FRS.
Preserve the statewide program that assists local governments with maintaining Spring Training
facilities.
Establish a framework for a state water infrastructure and water quality funding program that
includes sustainable utility practices and intragovernmental coordination.
Allow municipalities to establish smoke-free zones within the boundaries of a city park.
Develop funding opportunities to coordinate state resiliency programs with those of local
governments.

Issues to Oppose
We oppose legislation that is detrimental to Clearwater and other municipalities including:
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Erosion of local self-government (Home Rule), a constitutional right Floridians supported in a
statewide vote 52 years ago.
Increased regulation of, or restrictions on, municipal operations and budgeting.
Preemption of local government’s ability to regulate Airbnb rentals, or similar marketplaces,
that allow individuals to rent out unused spaces in their homes for lodging.
Changes to existing laws related to offshore oil drilling in the Gulf of Mexico.
Restriction or elimination of Community Redevelopment Agencies.
Imposed consolidation of municipal and county services.

In addition, the City will support the Florida League of Cities in pursuing its legislative priorities.