The FCCB has identified its public policy priorities for the 2020 Legislative Session, set to begin January 14. Key issues of concern are identified under the advocacy areas of life, education, health care, and family & social concerns.

On November 12, SB 404 (Stargel) was taken up by the Senate Health Policy Committee. In an effort to stall final consideration of the bill, fifteen amendments were filed by lawmakers who oppose the underlying measure. None of the amendments passed; however, the amendatory process and questions on the bill consumed the entire 90 minutes scheduled for the meeting. With time expiring, a vote on the bill could not be taken, and the bill was temporarily postponed. We expect the bill to be rescheduled for a future meeting of the committee.

On Saturday, November 30, communities across the globe dedicated to the abolition of the death penalty and a more civil form of justice will participate in The World Day of Cities for Life / Cities Against the Death Penalty. Specific efforts vary by location, but many cities take part by lighting up major historical, religious, or civic monuments. In turn, those illuminated monuments become symbols of a commitment to creating a world without the death penalty. This annual event has been spearheaded by the Rome-based lay Catholic community of Sant'Egidio since 2002. November 30 coincides with the anniversary of the first death penalty abolition in history, which occurred in the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, Italy on November 30, 1786. Today, the top five nations carrying out executions are China, Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the United States.

On November 6, a number of workers came to the Capitol to advocate for legislation providing protections for Florida workers at high risk for heat illness. SB 882 (Torres, Jr.) and HB 513 (Smith (C)) would require outdoor laborers to have free access to cool water, shade, and short breaks during periods of intense heat. The bills include required worker and supervisor training on how to identify symptoms of heat stress and how to administer first aid to affected workers on the job. FCCB supports this measure that promotes and protects the dignity and health of workers.

As Catholics, we have a long tradition of engagement in the political process as a means of putting our faith into action. We are called to bring the best of ourselves and our faith to the public square -- and yet today, many shy away from such involvement because our national and local conversations are filled with vitriol and harsh language, often directed at individuals. When personal attacks replace honest debate, no one wins. This kind of attack, no matter the reason, only serves to further divide our communities. As Catholics, we must bear witness to a better way.