Barney Frank, a Massachusetts congressman who co-authored the Dodd-Frank financial reform law and was a pioneering openly gay politician, has died at 86. He served 32 years in Congress and was known for his sharp wit and advocacy on banking and civil rights.
Posts tagged as “Don’t Say Gay”
The School Board of Lake County and Florida education officials have reversed their decision to restrict access to the popular children's book "And Tango Makes Three" due to the "Don't Say Gay" law. The law, which was challenged by the ACLU and other advocacy groups, has been found to violate students' First Amendment rights. The book is now available to students in Lake County schools, and its message of acceptance and inclusion is one that should be shared with all children.
A coalition of civil rights organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign, have issued a travel advisory for Florida due to newly passed laws and policies, such as the "Don't Say Gay" bill. The advisory warns potential visitors to be aware of the risks associated with the state before making any travel plans. Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign, said in a statement, “Those who visit must join us in their vocal opposition to these dangerous policies.”
Walt Disney Co. has filed a lawsuit against Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, accusing him of launching a "targeted campaign of government retaliation" in response to Disney's criticism of the state's "Don't Say Gay" law. The complaint alleges that DeSantis' actions have threatened Disney's business operations and violated its constitutional rights. Reports have emerged that DeSantis is preparing to jump into the presidential fray, potentially as soon as mid-May, which could have an impact on the state and its citizens.
Former Florida Republican lawmaker Joseph Harding has pleaded guilty to federal felony charges related to COVID-19 relief fraud in Gainesville federal court. He had initially pleaded not guilty to the charges, but now pleads guilty to one count of each charge, cutting his potential punishment in half. Harding will pay $150,000 in restitution to the Small Business Administration and the sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 8.
Florida Republicans have introduced three bills to expand upon the state's "Don't Say Gay" law, which restricts classroom instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity in kindergarten through third grade. The bills, H.B. 1223, H.B. 1069, and H.B. 1320, all take aim at different aspects of gender and sexuality education in public schools. The bills have been met with criticism from LGBTQ advocacy groups, while supporters argue that they are necessary to protect the rights of parents. The bills are currently being considered by the Florida Legislature and are expected to be voted on during the 2023 session.
Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida has signed a bill into law that strips Walt Disney World of its self-governing status and requires DeSantis to appoint a five-member board to oversee the government services provided in the theme park properties. The bill is seen as a way for DeSantis to gain political leverage and to punish Disney for its opposition to his “Don’t Say Gay” law, as well as to gain favor among conservative voters as he prepares for a potential presidential run.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a law that gives him control over Walt Disney Co., in response to the company's criticism of his "Don't Say Gay" law. The law cancels the dissolution of a special taxing district for Disney's 25,000 acres south of Orlando, allowing DeSantis to replace the existing board with one of his own choosing. The law is expected to have a major impact on Central Florida, with Disney being a major employer and economic driver in the area.