House Democrats Cheer Crist for Calling Special Session

Gov. Charlie Crists call for a special session of the Legislature to forward a proposed constitutional amendment banning oil drilling in state waters is being cheered by House Democrats.

Since 2005, Florida House Democrats have proposed bans on drilling near Floridas waters because the hazards to our way of life, our economy and environment are too great and the benefits of drilling in these precious areas are too few, said House Minority Leader Franklin Sands, D-Weston. On behalf of the entire Florida House Democratic Caucus, I extend my warm appreciation to the governor for his actions today, and I urge all Floridians to join us in supporting a robust near-shore drilling ban.

Rep. Keith Fitzgerald, D-Sarasota, whose name has been mentioned as a possible running mate for likely Democratic gubernatorial nominee state CFO Alex Sink, agreed with Sands.

I congratulate Governor Crist for his display of leadership in calling this much-needed special session, said Fitzgerald. More than two months ago, I joined Democratic colleagues and other state leaders in urging the governor to take this action to, once and for all, forbid drilling off our shores and protect Floridas beautiful coastline for future generations.

I believe that placing amendments into our Constitution ought to be a rare and special occurrence. This is such a time, said Rep. Rick Kriseman, D-St. Petersburg. For the sake of our beautiful state, its economy, environment, and our way of life, I am very pleased that Governor Crist has heeded our call for a special session and I look forward to empowering Floridians come November and protecting Florida forever.