Florida Government Relations Summer Update

Over the summer, your American Heart Association Florida Government Relations team continues to power forward meeting with elected officials throughout the state. To date, we've held nearly three dozen meetings, with more on tap beginning after the August 26 primary election.

Why is this important to you?

Just as heart disease and stroke don’t take the summer off, we cannot afford to either. We need to be in the offices of Florida’s policy makers educating them, thanking them for their support and reminding them of our efforts to combat heart disease and stroke through specific policy changes. And we'll be counting on your help! 

What issues will we work on in 2019?

Pending a decision by our Florida State Advocacy Committee, we may return to the legislature in 2019 seeking to raise the purchase age of tobacco products from 18 to 21. We may also work toward creation of a data registry to track, analyze and evaluate treatment of STEMI (ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction) heart attacks also known as the “widow maker.” Our intent is to significantly decrease the mortality rate of this deadly killer. We also seek to remind public officials that good nutrition is at the heart healthy choice and, in the long run, will reduce state spending on patients receiving public assistance from the state.

To make these policy efforts possible, efforts are underway to meet legislators, secure sponsors for legislation, write campaign plans, and conduct the myriad activities required for success in the legislative arena. Only through our combined efforts can we be successful in our desire to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

If you or a family member personally know your state representative, senator or cabinet member, please comment below or contact us at [email protected], as you may be the linchpin in making a huge impact on them to improve heart health!