Policies & Issues

1. Talent and Education

Talent has emerged as central to efforts by any state to be competitive in an innovation-based economy. The presence of a critical mass of highly skilled workers is a powerful lure for businesses and research ties it directly to higher income levels.

We must make our education system globally superior, in order to lure the best workforce talent.  We need to meet the future workforce needs of a state with 10 million more people with an effective K-20 education system. By the year 2030, 1.5 million more university degrees will be in demand.  In business today, no competition is tougher than the global race for talent. In every industry, every job sector, and every part of the world, employers are asking the same question: How are we going to find, train, and retain the best workers?

2. Innovation and Economic Development

Developing a Knowledge-Based Economy at the Cutting Edge of Technological Development.
Florida’s success in developing and applying innovation and fostering emerging businesses will shape the economy well into this century. The state needs to develop an environment that encourages the development and application of new technologies while nourishing the businesses and workers that will lead this innovation.
Aerospace, bioscience, technology and engineering-related jobs are some of the targeted industries that will be the backbone of Florida’s business community in the coming decades. We have thousands of very vibrant small businesses in Florida. With a little streamlining and targeted incentives, these bright spots in our business community will enjoy dramatic growth.

3. Infrastructure and Growth Leadership

We must modernize our infrastructure. Florida’s infrastructure – transportation, communications, energy, and related systems – historically has been a driver of the State’s growth. Already, these systems are under enormous pressure to accommodate current needs, let alone support future growth. Florida will also need 76% more energy by 2030.

4. Business Climate and Competitiveness

Florida’s economy is the 20th largest in the world. We must keep Florida Globally competitive. Florida’s business climate is one of the strongest in the nation but remaining competitive is a continued challenge as the State’s economy grows and changes. The State’s tax structure has been a strength, but we must continue to fight against attempts to increase the tax burden on business.

5. Governance

Ensure a Government that is Responsive and Efficient.  Florida has made great strides in protecting our constitution but our sacred document remains under attack. More reforms are needed to protect Florida from unfair and harmful amendment proposals. We need limited government intrusion in the free market.

6. Quality of Life

Preserve a High Quality of Life for Hard-Working Floridians. Prosperous and livable Florida communities have access to affordable health care. They are also safe, diverse and family-friendly.