Sen. Joe Negron Wins 2013 Pete Weitzel/Friend of the First Amendment Award

Sen. Joe Negron, R-Stuart, was announced Monday as recipient of the 2013 First Amendment Foundations Pete Weitzel/Friend of the First Amendment Award for working to ensure Floridas government remains open and transparent.

The input of my constituents and all Floridians is important to me and is the driving force behind my work in the Senate, Negron responded. I am committed to making government readily accessible to those looking to be heard. The First Amendment Foundation shares this goal, and I am honored to receive their recognition. I look forward to continuing to strive to remove unwarranted barriers and to making sure there are always open lines of communication between public servants and their constituents.

In a printed statement announcing the award, Barbara Petersen, president of the First Amendment Foundation, said, We are grateful for Senator Negrons unwavering determination to ensure the passage of legislation guaranteeing members of the public a reasonable opportunity to speak before their elected and appointed representatives. We applaud the passage of Senate Bill 50 and are grateful for Senator Negrons efforts on behalf of all Floridians, setting a standard all those in government should emulate.

Senate President Don Gaetz, R-Niceville, said of Negron, Throughout his service in the Florida House and Senate, Joe Negron has been a tireless advocate for open government. There is no elected official in Florida more deserving of this prestigious award ..."

Negron represents SD 32, which includes parts of Indian River, Martin, Palm Beach and St. Lucie counties.