FMEA members did a GREAT JOB of turning calls and emails to the members of this committee. It was also very helpful that most were contacting their OWN senator.

There were a number of speakers for the bill, and slightly more against.  Parents from Bay County and Leon County appeared to testify, as well as students from FSU representing Senator Wise’s district and Pinellas County. It is extremely helpful to have well-spoken parents/students present testimony at these hearing.

Senator Deutch, Palm Beach County, voted against the bill and noted that it would create a default scheduling position for middle schools and that the mechanism for “opting out” was an issue for him.  He was concerned that music and the arts would be diminished by the action of the bill.  His constituents should be extremely appreciative of his comments and his “against” vote – as it is one of the few times a legislator has supported the arts community with his vote, in addition to his comments.  All other members of the committee voted “for” the amended bill.

Additionally, we should recognize that Senator Gaetz responded to his constituents and worked with Senator Constantine to craft the amendment to the original bill.  Our members in Senator Gaetz’ district provided outstanding leadership for their community in keeping this issue at the forefront –especially Michael Dye (FVA president), Jamie Birdwell (FBA District 2 chair), and the band director at Niceville High School, Daniel Wooten.