Bills Seeks to Enhance Government Partnerships with Faith and Community Networks

SB 820, sponsored by Senator Clay Yarborough (R-Jacksonville), would create the Office of Faith and Community within the Executive Office of the Governor to connect government infrastructure and resources with faith-based and community-based organizations. The measure recognizes the significant role of faith and community networks in supporting vulnerable groups and promotes enhanced collaboration with governmental programs.

The new office would provide administrative support to the Florida Faith-Based and Community-Based Advisory Council, composed of 25 members that include representatives from various faith and community organizations, foundations, corporations, and municipalities. FCCB’s executive director, Michael Sheedy, is currently a member of the council.

SB 820 passed the Senate Governmental Oversight and Accountability Committee by a vote of (6-1) on April 1. Staff indicated support for the bill during the meeting. The House companion, HB 293 by Rep. Doug Bankson (R-Apopka), is now in the Health & Human Services Committee.