The Florida House unanimously gave final approval to Triumph Gulf Coast legislation, sending the bill to the Governor.
Kim Wilmes, President & CEO of Florida’s Great Northwest, issued this statement:
“Today is a landmark occasion for Northwest Florida, which has endured so much economic hardship in the seven years since the BP oil spill. The region’s legislators, supported by legislative leadership, have made it possible for the affected counties to chart a new future built on a more robust, diverse, and forward-thinking economic foundation. Under this legislation, the Triumph Gulf Coast board will foster initiatives that will transform Northwest Florida, ensuring a brighter future for the region’s residents.
“None of this would have been possible without the earlier vision of former Senate President Don Gaetz, the dedicated and tireless efforts of House Speaker Richard Corcoran and Senate President Joe Negron, and the teamwork of Northwest Florida’s legislative delegation under the steadying hand of Rep. Jay Trumbull, who chaired the House Select Committee on Triumph Gulf Coast. Every member of the delegation made invaluable contributions to the debate that helped shape the final legislation, and all Northwest Floridians are grateful for the commitment to this cause shared by Reps. Beshears, Drake, Ingram, Ponder, Trumbull, White, and Williamson.
“This week’s actions by the Senate and House pave the way for transforming the region’s economy, so Northwest Florida can now move forward.â€