For Immediate Release January 26, 2023
Contact: Katie Betta (850) 487-5229
LIVE LOCAL: Florida Senate President Kathleen Passidomo Unveils Comprehensive Statewide Workforce Housing Strategy Senator Alexis Calatayud to sponsor legislation creating attainable housing options, convenient for Florida workers who want to live in the communities they serve Tallahassee–Florida Senate President Kathleen Passidomo (R-Naples) today announced a comprehensive, statewide workforce housing strategy designed to increase the availability of attainable housing options for Florida workers who seek to live in the communities they serve. The legislation, Senate Bill 102, Housing, will be filed today by Senator Alexis Calatayud (RMiami), Chair of the Senate Committee on Community Affairs. “All too often housing is stereotyped as a challenge for those living at the lowest income levels, when in reality, finding attainable housing options close to local jobs is a challenge impacting our broader workforce and also our seniors,” said President Passidomo. “The Live Local plan we are unveiling today is the product of my discussions with stakeholders over a number of years. With their advice and input, we are tackling this complex issue from all angles – from incentivizing private sector investment, to increasing state funding, to common sense reductions in regulations, this plan will improve options for both homeownership and affordable rental units in communities across our state.” “Florida workers need safe and affordable housing to provide for their families and get a step closer to realizing their version of the American dream. ‘Live Local’ is a bold vision to tackle home affordability and attainability for hardworking Floridians across our state,” said Florida House Speaker Paul Renner (R-Palm Coast). “Here in the free state of Florida, we respect the dignity of work and the value of family life. We know that lower commute times mean a higher quality of life for growing families. President Passidomo’s Live Local plan provides attainable housing options for Floridians at every income level and stage of life with a focus on ensuring our workers have an affordable, convenient place to live and raise their families,” said Senator Calatayud. “Through key partnerships with the private sector, this proposal will make certain that companies expanding in and moving to our state can recruit and retain the workforce needed to keep Florida open for business.”