ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Former Florida State Representative Daisy Morales, a trailblazer for Puerto Rican representation in Florida politics, is celebrating her 65th birthday. Morales, once the highest-ranking Puerto Rican woman elected official in the state, continues to champion community empowerment, cultural preservation and public service across Central Florida.

A longtime advocate with deep roots in both federal service and local government, Morales remains a powerful voice for Puerto Rican culture and for underserved communities statewide.

A Legacy of Leadership in the Florida House

Morales represented District 48 in the Florida House of Representatives from 2020 to 2022. Her tenure was marked by a bipartisan governing style that delivered meaningful results for Floridians. Known for working across party lines, she gained praise for her legislative productivity and drew occasional pushback from within her own party for her independent approach.

Her legislative portfolio addressed consumer protection, disability rights, military families, education and financial relief for vulnerable residents.

Legislative Achievements That Made Statewide Impact

During her term, Morales led or supported several key measures that achieved tangible results for communities across Florida:

• HB 45 — Expanded educational opportunities for disabled veterans. The bill became a national model and inspired similar legislation in other states.

• HB 213 — Created the Down Syndrome Awareness specialty license plate to generate ongoing funding and awareness initiatives.

• HB 13 — Increased property tax exemptions for widows, widowers, blind residents and fully disabled individuals from $500 to $5,000, offering significant financial relief.

• HB 857 (amended into HB 1347/SB 1120) — Strengthened regulations on commercial telemarketing to protect consumers from predatory solicitation.

• HB 855 — Deregulated barber services and streamlined licensing, expanding opportunities for professional barbers statewide.

Morales was also recognized for attending the Governor’s Summit on Disabilities annually with The Family Café since 2014, reflecting her long-standing advocacy for individuals with disabilities.

Champion of Puerto Rican Culture and Heritage

A proud cultural advocate, Morales led the creation of House Resolution 8069, which designates April 2 as Puerto Rican Heritage Day in Florida. The initiative earned proclamations from Governor Ron DeSantis, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer.

Her work culminated in the founding of the Puerto Rican Heritage Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit launched in 2023. The organization promotes Puerto Rican heritage through programs centered on education, workforce development, social impact, justice, culture and leadership.

Federal Service and Early Public Roles

Before entering state politics, Morales served 24 years in the U.S. Government, holding positions with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Department of State.

Her elected career began in 2014 when she won a seat on the Orange County Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors, where she went on to serve as Interim Chair, Vice Chair and Media Relations Officer.

Her community-focused leadership and federal experience helped build the foundation for her later work in the Florida Legislature.

Overcoming Political Challenges and Looking Ahead

Despite her accomplishments, Morales faced internal party opposition due to her bipartisan approach, contributing to her primary defeats in 2022 and 2024. Still, her commitment to public service remains unwavering.

As she celebrates her 65th birthday, supporters, community leaders and constituents across Florida continue to share messages of gratitude and admiration for her decades-long dedication. Morales’ legacy as a Puerto Rican leader, federal official and community advocate continues to inspire future generations.