Politics

Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Support for Ian-Impacted Homeowners Insurance Deductibles

Published

2 years ago

October 22, 2022

File - J Willie David, III / Florida National News

FORT MYERS, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida Housing Finance Corporation (Florida Housing) is awarding $5 million to local housing partners to help Floridians impacted by Hurricane Ian pay their home insurance deductibles in the six hardest hit counties. Funding assistance is available to individuals, families, and seniors living in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Lee, and Sarasota counties who apply and qualify through Florida Housing’s local housing partners. Homeowners are encouraged to contact their local SHIP office directly for more information: Local Government Information (floridahousing.org).

As the state’s housing finance agency, Florida Housing annually receives funding from the Legislature for the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) program, of which $5 million is set aside to be used in the event of a natural disaster. This year, the disaster funds have been allocated to assist Floridians who are low to moderate income, live in one of the six counties hardest hit by Hurricane Ian and cannot afford to pay their insurance deductibles.

“Following the impacts of Hurricane Ian, it was really important to us to make sure people were able to get back into their homes and rebuild as quickly as possible – today’s announcement will help do just that,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “We know a lot of homeowners had coverage for the storm, however insurance deductibles are expensive and often a gap not covered by other support. These funds will immediately help families and seniors with limited means get closer to recovery.”

“We know there are many hardworking families and senior citizens on a fixed income that live in the areas impacted by Hurricane Ian,” said Trey Price, Executive Director of Florida Housing Finance Corporation. “Hurricane deductibles are larger than typical deductibles for home damages, and many people impacted aren’t prepared to put up tens of thousands of dollars to begin the work of rebuilding their homes. By providing the necessary financial assistance to help these families pay their insurance deductibles we hope this will ease some of the burden that comes after a major storm and allow the focus to remain on recovery. We’re grateful for the leadership from Governor DeSantis and the state Legislature as we all work together to continue providing Southwest Florida with the support needed to help their communities rebuild.”

“Just a little more than a week ago, Governor DeSantis and I sat with business owners in Lee County, and we consistently heard the very real, urgent challenges that residents need help with to recover. Insurance deductibles were definitely one of the consistent points raised,” said Department of Economic Opportunity Secretary Dane Eagle. “Today, with the Governor’s leadership, we’re again turning the feedback of Southwest Florida residents into action, and we look forward to meeting with Florida Housing’s local partners to spread the word and further identify ways to support housing needs.”

Florida Housing is also working to compile information on disaster relief resources. The following are possible resources for families affected by Hurricane Ian:

Individuals that have been displaced from their homes are encouraged to visit www.FloridaHousingSearch.org. This free, statewide search platform is constantly being updated to ensure all listings are accurate and can help quickly locate an affordable rental property. If you do not have Internet access, you may also call the following toll-free number for assistance in conducting a search: 1-877-428-8844.

If your home sustained damage as a result of the storm, your local State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) program office may have recovery assistance available to help with temporary relocation, rental assistance, debris removal and/or home repairs. Please contact your local SHIP office directly for more information: Local Government Information (floridahousing.org)

Florida residents can apply for federal assistance to help with disaster-related expenses, including temporary lodging. For more information please visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-FEMA (3362) or use the FEMA App.

Residents who used Florida Housing’s Homeownership Loan Program (HLP) may be eligible for Disaster Relief Assistance through US Bank. Please visit their website for more information: Disaster relief assistance | Here for you | U.S. Bank (usbank.com)

Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, and Federal Housing Administration loans (FHA) back the majority of U.S. mortgages – and each has some kind of program to help homeowners struggling to pay their monthly mortgage payment after a disaster. Disaster relief options are offered to homeowners in declared major disaster areas. However, even homeowners outside those areas may have options if their home incurred a disaster-related loss that impacts their ability to make a mortgage payment. Foreclosure and other legal proceedings are also suspended while homeowners are on a forbearance plan. Click here to learn more.

Operation Blue Roof: Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Operation Blue Roof provides homeowners and permanently occupied rental properties in disaster areas with fiber-reinforced sheeting to cover their damaged roofs until arrangements can be made for permanent repairs.
If you own a private business that has been impacted, please visit www.FloridaDisaster.biz/.

For more information about Florida Housing Finance Corporation and disaster relief resources, please visit Disaster Relief Resources and Information (floridahousing.org).

Politics

Bracy Siblings Face Off in Heated Battle for Florida Senate District 15 Seat

Published

4 days ago

March 21, 2025

Willie David

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – A political showdown is unfolding in Florida Senate District 15, as former State Senator Randolph Bracy and his sister, State Representative LaVon Bracy Davis, both officially enter the race to replace the late Senator Geraldine Thompson, who passed away unexpectedly on February 13 due to complications from knee replacement surgery.

A Vacancy That Sparks a Family Feud: Bracy vs Bracy

The loss of Senator Thompson left a crucial legislative seat open during the 2025 session, prompting Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to soon order a Special Election to fill the vacancy. The race is already shaping up to be a contentious battle between two high-profile political figures—who also happen to be siblings.

Representative LaVon Bracy Davis formally announced her candidacy on Friday morning, surrounded by state and local leaders, family, and members of Geraldine Thompson’s family, signaling strong political support.

“This is about the people,” Bracy Davis declared. “I’m not running against anyone—I’m running for the people of Senate District 15.”

Her brother, Randolph Bracy, wasted no time responding. Just one day after Thompson’s passing, he took to social media, posting:

“The answer is yes, I will be seeking election for District 15.”

Bracy’s decision follows his 2024 campaign against Thompson, in which he controversially accused her of not living in the district. During that race, Bracy Davis notably backed Thompson over her brother, a move that now adds another layer of complexity to the sibling rivalry.

Randolph Bracy Calls Out His Sister’s Candidacy

Bracy was blunt in his reaction to his sister’s announcement, expressing disappointment and disbelief over her decision to run against him.

“This is a sad day for the Bracy name. My sister choosing to run against me dishonors our father’s legacy in every way possible,” he stated. “I will not disparage our father, who believed in this family, by debating my sister in any format. People know my record, and I will continue to walk and live in the light, putting the PEOPLE over POWER.”

Bracy Davis emphasized her legislative experience and commitment to addressing critical issues in her campaign launch.

“My experience as a state representative has shown me the importance of fighting for the needs of our community,” she said. “I am ready to serve the people of District 15 and committed to bringing the same passion and dedication I’ve had throughout my career to the Florida State Senate, addressing critical issues like affordable housing, education, and economic development.”

With the Bracy siblings heading toward an intense political showdown, the District 15 Special Election promises to be one of Florida’s most closely watched races.

What’s Next for the Bracys?

Governor Ron DeSantis is expected to announce a Special Election date soon.
Campaigns are ramping up, with both candidates expected to hold events, debates, and public forums.
Political tensions rise as voters will have to choose between two well-known family members with opposing perspectives.

________________________________________________________

J Willie David, III
Florida National News and FNN News Network
News2FloridaNationalNews.com

Politics

Rep. Jervonte Edmonds’ Housing Bill Advances, Aims to Cut Costs for Florida Renters

Published

1 week ago

March 17, 2025

Willie David

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN) – A bill designed to reduce housing application costs for Florida renters has advanced in the Florida Legislature.

House Bill 43 (HB 43), sponsored by Representative Jervonte Edmonds (D-West Palm Beach), passed its first committee, the Civil Justice and Claims Committee, marking a significant step toward financial relief for renters.

The bill would allow landlords to accept reusable tenant screening reports, enabling renters to submit the same credit report for up to 30 days instead of paying for multiple credit checks with each housing application. This change also aims to reduce the number of hard credit pulls, helping to protect renters’ credit scores while saving money.

“I’ve heard too many stories of hardworking Floridians struggling just to apply for housing,” said Representative Edmonds. “This bill is about making the process fairer, easier, and more affordable for those trying to secure a home.”

Following its success in the first committee, HB 43 now moves to the next legislative step. Representative Edmonds emphasized his commitment to pursuing solutions that improve the quality of life for Florida families.

____________________________________________________________

J Willie David, III
Forida National News and FNN News Network
News@FloridaNationalNews.com

Politics

Suspended Orlando City Commissioner Regina Hill Seeks Political Comeback with Reelection Bid

Published

3 weeks ago

March 5, 2025

FNN NEWS

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Suspended Orlando City Commissioner Regina Hill, who is facing criminal charges but has not been convicted, announced Wednesday that she will run for reelection to reclaim her District 5 seat.

Hill’s Legacy in District 5

First elected in 2013, Hill has focused on job creation, education opportunities, business development, and affordable housing for her district, according to the City of Orlando.

Despite her legal troubles, Hill maintains that her leadership has brought transformative change to the community.

Announcing her candidacy on social media, she stated, “After much reflection, prayer, and supplication in response to the enthusiastic requests of many community members, I’ve decided on this day, the beginning of Lent, to submit my paperwork to officially run for reelection as the commissioner of District 5 to continue serving my beloved community.”

Legal Battle and Criminal Allegations

Hill is accused of financially exploiting a 96-year-old constituent, allegedly misusing more than $100,000 of her money and fraudulently securing a $428,000 mortgage in the elderly woman’s name for a home in Orlando. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement arrested Hill in March 2024.

While she has not been convicted of any crime, her trial, originally set for January 27, 2025, was postponed after her attorney requested additional time for depositions. A pre-trial hearing is now scheduled for April 29.

Suspension and Special Election

Following her arrest, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis suspended Hill from office, triggering a special election for her seat. In June 2024, Shaniqua Rose defeated former state representative Travaris McCurdy in a runoff election and was sworn into office on June 23, 2024.

Hill’s extensive arrest history didn’t matter to District 5 voters, who repeatedly elected and reelected her to office.

Rose confirmed that she will seek reelection, stating, “I filed to run for reelection in July 2024. Our community deserves a leader who will continue to fight for honesty, integrity, and real change. I will continue to listen, take action, and put the people of District 5 first.”

A High-Stakes Race for District 5

Hill’s decision to run again has sparked intense debate among residents and sets up a heated election battle in District 5. With legal proceedings still unfolding and the campaign season in full swing, District 5 voters will ultimately decide whether Hill deserves another term or if leadership should remain with Rose, District 5 Interim Commissioner.