Incoming Florida House Speaker Steve Crisafulli, R-Merritt Island, named some of his leadership team on Thursday as he readies to take the gavel.
Rep. Matt Hudson, R-Naples, will be speaker pro tempore under Crisafulli. During his time in the House, Hudson has often focused on health care, something Crisafulli alluded to on Thursday.
Rep. Hudson has shown unfailing leadership in his role as chairman of the Health Care Appropriations Subcommittee, Crisafulli said of Hudson. He has tackled complex issues and has a willingness to fight for legislation that is in the best interest of all Floridians. He has served the House well and will be a great asset to me during this legislative term.
Rep. Dana Young, R-Tampa, will continue in the Republican leadership, moving up from her current post as GOP whip to House majority leader. Crisafulli offered praise for Young who is a key ally of outgoing House Speaker Will Weatherford, R-Wesley Chapel.
As majority leader, I had the pleasure of working with Rep. Young who served as majority whip," Crisafulli said. I know firsthand that she has what it takes to be a great majority leader for our caucus. She is bold, knowledgeable, and has earned great respect in the Florida House.
Rep. Ritch Workman, R-Melbourne, the current chair of the House Finance and Tax Subcommittee, will head up the Rules and Calendar Committee, an important post in maneuvering legislation through committees and onto the House floor.
Rep. Workman championed the cause of all Floridians as he led the way on a $500 million tax relief program during the 2014 legislative session," Crisafulli said. He builds consensus, solves complex problems, and treats all members with respect. He will make an excellent Rules chair.
Rep. Richard Corcoran, R-Trinity, who is scheduled to take over as House speaker after the 2016 elections, will lead the Appropriations Committee.
Rep. Corcoran has a wealth of knowledge and expertise, having served both as a staff member and an elected representative, Crisafulli said. His skills and experience will be well-suited in his role as the chair of Appropriations.
Crisafulli said he intended to help Corcoran get ready to lead the House down the road.
When I was named speaker-designate, I was grateful for the way Speaker Weatherford included me in the operations of the House during his term, and I intend to follow the same model during my tenure, Crisafulli said.
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