TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN) – Florida lawmakers are moving forward with several bills formerly sponsored by the late Senator Geraldine Thompson, ensuring her legislative efforts continue to shape the state’s future.

Senator Arrington (District 25) is now the sponsor of SB 208/HB 33, previously led by Senator Thompson. This bill, known as “An Agreement Among the States to Elect the National Popular Vote,” proposes allocating Florida’s electoral votes to the presidential candidate who wins the national popular vote. The bill seeks to shift away from the traditional Electoral College system, ensuring the candidate with the most votes nationwide becomes President. However, this change will only take effect once enough states possessing a majority of electoral votes join the agreement. SB 208 has been referred to the Ethics and Elections, Judiciary, and Rules committees.

Senator Smith (District 15) has taken up SB 1754/HB 1413, previously championed by Senator Thompson, which proposes the creation of the Florida Museum of History at the Town of Eatonville. The museum aims to showcase Florida’s diverse history, highlighting significant contributions from African American, Hispanic, and women’s communities. The project proposes a five-year $75 million budget in state appropriations with additional revenue from admission fees, events, and retail sales.

Senator Rodriguez (District 40) is sponsoring SB 246, another bill formerly led by Senator Thompson, designed to expand grandparents’ visitation rights. The bill allows grandparents to seek visitation with minor grandchildren under broader conditions than current law permits, such as when parents are divorced or if one parent is missing, deceased, or incapacitated. The bill is now under review by the Children, Families & Elder Affairs, Judiciary, and Rules committees.

In addition, Senator Osgood (District 32) is sponsoring two key business-related bills previously supported by Senator Thompson: SB 1614 and SB 1616. SB 1614 introduces a streamlined process for expedited business filings with the Florida Department of State, establishing structured fees for incorporation, reinstatement, and more. SB 1616 builds on this by outlining tiered fees for expedited filing services, ensuring faster business registration options. Both bills are interdependent, requiring joint passage to take effect.

Lastly, Senator Davis (District 5) is advancing SB 1582, an ambitious election reform bill originally sponsored by Senator Thompson. The bill proposes making the Secretary of State an elected position, implementing same-day voter registration, and ensuring language accessibility in elections. It also introduces the Florida Voting Rights Act, which aims to protect minority voters and provide clear guidance for individuals with felony convictions seeking voting eligibility.

With these efforts, Florida lawmakers are ensuring that Senator Geraldine Thompson’s dedication to justice, equality, and community advancement continues to impact the state for years to come.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (FNN) – President Donald Trump arrived at Palm Beach International Airport aboard Air Force One on Friday, March 7, 2025, just before 8 PM, marking another high-profile visit to his Florida residence. Accompanying the President was billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, the world’s richest man, alongside a group of officials and guests.

Photo by Florida National News / Roman Garay

Upon landing, President Trump and Musk were swiftly escorted from Air Force One, greeting a select group of supporters and dignitaries before boarding vehicles in the presidential motorcade. The convoy departed the airport en route to Mar-a-Lago, Trump’s private estate in Palm Beach.

This visit comes amid heightened political and economic discussions, with Musk’s presence fueling speculation about potential collaborations or policy discussions between the business magnate and the Trump administration.

Trump’s arrival in Florida follows a series of major policy announcements and public engagements as he continues to solidify his political influence ahead of the 2025 landscape.

Stay tuned for updates as Florida National News (FNN) continues to monitor the President’s visit and its potential implications.

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – In celebration of Women’s History Month, Florida National News highlights the groundbreaking contributions of Daisy Morales, a proud Puerto Rican leader whose dedication to public service has left a lasting impact on Florida and beyond. Morales made history as a Florida State Representative and an elected Supervisor for the Orange County Soil & Water Conservation District, serving a total of eight years in public office.

A Legacy of Bipartisan Leadership

During her tenure as a State Representative, Morales proved to be a champion for bipartisan collaboration. She sponsored and co-sponsored over 110 bipartisan bills that became state law in her first term—more than any other Democratic lawmaker at the time. Among her key legislative achievements, she successfully spearheaded efforts to expand educational opportunities for disabled veterans. Her landmark legislation was included in the Governor’s bill-signing ceremony and later became a national model for lawmakers in other states, reinforcing her influence beyond Florida.

“Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements of women who have shaped our communities and paved the way for future generations,” Morales told Florida National News. “As a Puerto Rican lawmaker, I have dedicated my career to advocating for equal opportunities in education, healthcare, and economic empowerment.”

Commitment to Environmental Conservation

Before serving in the Florida House, Morales focused on environmental conservation as an elected Supervisor for the Orange County Soil & Water Conservation District. She worked alongside two Orange County Commissioners to install Orange County Soil & Water Conservation District signage at key county lines, marking the boundaries between Orange, Seminole, and Osceola Counties. Her leadership helped raise awareness about local environmental conservation efforts and reinforced the district’s role in protecting Florida’s natural resources.

Leadership in Crisis Response

Morales distinguished herself as a dedicated leader during the COVID-19 crisis and in response to hurricanes, effectively addressing the challenges that impacted her district and the people of Florida. Her proactive approach and leadership during these crises helped ensure critical resources and support reached those in need.

Continuing Advocacy Through the Puerto Rican Heritage Network

Even after leaving public office, Morales continues her commitment to community service. In 2023, she founded the Puerto Rican Heritage Network, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Puerto Rican culture, education, and leadership. Through this initiative, she remains an active force in uplifting and empowering Puerto Ricans across Florida and beyond.

Recognizing a Champion for Women’s History Month

As we honor Women’s History Month in 2025, Daisy Morales’ legacy stands as a testament to the power of dedicated leadership. Her contributions to education, veterans’ rights, environmental conservation, and bipartisan policymaking continue to inspire future generations. Through her unwavering advocacy, she remains a powerful voice for inclusivity and progress in Florida.