TAMPA, Fla. – Representative Susan L. Valdés (D- Tampa) is continuing an initiative aimed at easing access to essential government documents for Puerto Rican citizens residing in the Tampa Bay area. On May 20^th, Representative Valdés will host the Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration (PRFAA) at her district office, continuing a temporary setup to provide constituent services to the Puerto Rican community in Tampa.

This marks the fifth event of a concerted effort between Representative Valdés and PRFAA. The PRFAA temporary office will offer assistance in obtaining vital documents, including birth, marriage, death, and Administration for Child Support (ASUME) certificates, as well as drivers records, and apostille services, streamlining the process for those in need. The Government of Puerto Rico invalidated all Puerto Rican birth certificates issued prior to July 1, 2010, and is replacing them with more secure versions.

“As we head into the summer months, a time where many individuals and families travel, it is important to have your essential government documents for boarding cruises, obtaining passports, and more. I am proud to continue this partnership with PRFAA and ease access for our community,” said Representative Valdés.

Building on PRFAA’s commitment to serving Puerto Ricans across the United States, this collaboration echoes the recent establishment of their full-time office in Kissimmee, Florida. The initiative represents a significant step in extending these vital services to the Tampa Bay area.

The event is scheduled to be held at Representative Valdés‘ district office, located at 2221 N Himes Ave, Suite B, Tampa, FL 33607, on May 20^th, 2024, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. for placing orders. The orders will be processed and the official documents will be ready for pick up on May 24^th. For more information regarding the services offered and to book an appointment please go the PRFAA’s website: https://prfaafl.simplybook.me/v2/ or by calling the district office at 813-673-4673.

[Orange County, Florida, May 9, 2024] – Orange County Supervisor of Elections, Glen Gilzean, unveils a groundbreaking budget that not only boosts voter outreach and education but also strengthens cybersecurity to ensure election integrity. Recognizing the growing threat of cyber-attacks on election infrastructure, Supervisor Gilzean has allocated a significant portion of the budget to implementing robust cybersecurity measures designed to protect voter data and safeguard election processes.

Supervisor Gilzean aims to set a new standard for electoral efficiency and transparency, underpinned by a comprehensive approach to community engagement and fiscal responsibility. “Our democracy thrives when every voice is heard, and every vote counts,” stated Supervisor Gilzean. “By investing in outreach and education initiatives, we empower our citizens to actively participate in the democratic process. Thanks to local input from the community, we present a budget that honors taxpayers and increases opportunities for more citizens to access their right to vote. This budget enhances voter engagement while delivering significant savings for Orange County taxpayers.”

To address the growing threats of cyber-attacks and data breaches, the proposed budget includes key investments in advanced cybersecurity technologies, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and data encryption. This step underscores the priority Orange County places on protecting the integrity of its elections and ensuring that voter data remains secure.

Community leaders demonstrate the support for Supervisor Gilzean’s budget proposal:

Ms. Rose Morris, President of Apopka Progressive Seniors Club, said, “Many seniors like myself have fought hard to secure the right to vote, and I’m glad to see that Supervisor Gilzean is investing in voter education and outreach. By ensuring every vote is counted and every voice is heard, he is honoring the legacy of those who fought for democracy and making it easier for everyone to participate.”

Pastor Jimmy Siberio, Iglesia Oasis, remarked, “By investing in cybersecurity, Supervisor Gilzean is ensuring that every vote is protected. The focus on bilingual community outreach—in both English and Spanish—demonstrates a commitment to making sure that all members of our community are informed and engaged in the democratic process.”

Pastor Hezekiah Bradford Jr., President of Ministerial Alliance, commented, “This budget shows that Supervisor Gilzean is serious about protecting our votes and our voices. The investment in cybersecurity ensures that we can trust the system, and the increase in voter education means more people from our communities will be informed and engaged.”

The proposed budget by Supervisor Glen Gilzean marks a pivotal moment in Orange County’s electoral landscape, setting a precedent for effective governance, community involvement, and fiscal prudence. As the budget proposal moves forward for consideration and approval, Supervisor Gilzean remains steadfast in his commitment to advancing democracy, transparency, and accountability in Orange County.