Issues & Policy...
Three Pillars
Transparency is a fundamental pillar of a healthy republic. It ensures that decisions made by public officials are open, accessible, and understandable to the constituents they serve. By promoting transparency, County Commissioners foster trust and engagement within the community, empowering citizens to hold their government accountable for its actions.
Accountability goes hand in hand with transparency, emphasizing the responsibility of County Commissioners to act in the best interests of the public. Holding elected officials accountable for their decisions and actions ensures that they remain responsive to the needs of the community and uphold the principles of integrity and ethical conduct. Through accountability mechanisms such as regular reporting, audits, and public hearings, County Commissioners demonstrate their commitment to serving the public good.
Decorum is essential for maintaining civility, respect, and professionalism in the conduct of County Commission proceedings. It encompasses the principles of courtesy, dignity, and fairness in interactions among Commissioners, staff, and members of the public. By upholding decorum, County Commissioners create an environment conducive to constructive dialogue, collaboration, and problem-solving, fostering a sense of unity and cohesion within the community.
Accountability goes hand in hand with transparency, emphasizing the responsibility of County Commissioners to act in the best interests of the public. Holding elected officials accountable for their decisions and actions ensures that they remain responsive to the needs of the community and uphold the principles of integrity and ethical conduct. Through accountability mechanisms such as regular reporting, audits, and public hearings, County Commissioners demonstrate their commitment to serving the public good.
Decorum is essential for maintaining civility, respect, and professionalism in the conduct of County Commission proceedings. It encompasses the principles of courtesy, dignity, and fairness in interactions among Commissioners, staff, and members of the public. By upholding decorum, County Commissioners create an environment conducive to constructive dialogue, collaboration, and problem-solving, fostering a sense of unity and cohesion within the community.
Infrastructure
Efficient transportation infrastructure is essential for the economic vitality and quality of life in Florida's Space Coast. With a diverse range of transportation modes including trails, sidewalks, bike paths, roads, highways, railways, airports, a seaport, and a spaceport--ensuring seamless connectivity is paramount. A well-maintained and interconnected transportation network supports economic development by facilitating the movement of goods and people, while also promoting active lifestyles and reducing congestion through alternative modes of transportation. Moreover, it plays a critical role in public safety and emergency response, ensuring residents can access essential services and evacuate swiftly in times of need. As County Commissioner, my commitment is to prioritize smart transportation planning and investment, fostering a more connected, prosperous, and resilient community for all on Florida's Space Coast.
Tax Reform
It would be hard to find a legislator who has sponsored more tax-cutting legislation than Thad Altman. As a member of the House Ways & Means Committee, Thad helped to draft and pass the “Florida First Tax Package” giving $170 million back to Floridians. He also voted in favor of creating a ballot measure to amend the State Constitution to require that any increase in taxes or fees requires a 2/3 majority in the Florida Legislature (Amendment 5, 2018).
Here is a small list of recent tax reform measures that Thad and his legislative colleagues supported during this year's 2024 Legislative Session:
PROPERTY INSURANCE TAX RELIEF FOR HOMEOWNERS
HB 7073 includes a one-year relief for residential property insurance policyholders, covering the cost of insurance premium tax and the State Fire Marshal assessment for residential property insurance policies written between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025, for a twelve-month coverage period.
The bill also includes a one-year insurance premium tax relief on flood insurance policies, reducing the cost of flood insurance policies written between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025.
PROPERTY TAX RELIEF
House Joint Resolution 7017 proposes an amendment to the Florida Constitution requiring the current $25,000 homestead exemption, which is applied to all ad valorem taxes other than school district taxes, be adjusted annually for positive inflation growth. The amendment will be considered by Florida voters at the 2024 general election and, if approved by 60 percent of the electors voting on the measure would take effect on January 1, 2025. If passed, the amendment is expected to save Florida homeowners $22.8 million during the first year, growing to $111.7 million by Fiscal Year 2028-29.
SMALL BUSINESS TAX RELIEF
HB 7073 provides a $5 million credit for three years against the corporate income tax for businesses employing persons with unique abilities of $1,000 per employee.
Additionally, the bill provides for a $5 million credit for three years for businesses for child care expenses incurred on behalf of employees.
The bill also increases the annual cap for the Strong Families Tax Credit Program from $20 million to $40 million. The Strong Families Tax Credit Program was created in 2021 to provide tax credits for businesses that make monetary donations to certain eligible charitable organizations focused on child welfare and well-being.
BROAD-BASED TAX RELIEF
Over the last several years, as state revenues have increased, the Florida Legislature has held the line on spending and prioritized broad-based tax relief for Florida’s families and businesses.
2023: As part of a historic tax relief package, House Bill (HB) 7063 provided permanent tax relief on key items utilized by growing families and seniors. The bill created a permanent sales tax exemption on the sale of baby and toddler diapers, wipes, clothing, shoes, strollers, cribs and many other baby and toddler safety items. The legislation also created a permanent tax exemption on the retail sale of adult diapers and incontinence products and oral hygiene products, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss. Further, the bill created a permanent sales tax exemption on certain materials used in agricultural operations, and reduced the business rent tax. Additionally, the bill froze the local cell phone and TV tax (local communications services tax) rates for three years. The local communications services tax rate in effect on January 1, 2023, may not be increased before January 1, 2026.
2022: House Bill 7071, delivered over $1 billion in broad-based tax savings to families across Florida, with a focus on long- and short-term sales tax relief. The legislation resulted in savings for Floridians preparing for Hurricane Season and the 2022-2023 school year, with added tax relief to benefit those raising young children, purchasing energy efficient appliances or skilled worker tools; as well as, individuals and families enjoying outdoor activities and events. With gas prices at an all-time high the previous year, a month-long gas tax holiday provided key relief for Florida families and businesses. The bill also eliminated property taxes for homeowners who suffered losses in the Champlain Towers condominium collapse in Surfside, Florida, and expanded existing property tax relief for deployed military service members, widows, widowers and blind or disabled Floridians.
2021: House Bill 7061 established Back-to-School, Disaster Preparedness, and Freedom Week Sales Tax Holidays, created a permanent tax exemption for independent living items, and expanded the tax credit for affordable housing. SB 50 prevented an unexpected tax hike on businesses by replenishing the unemployment compensation trust fund. The bill created a fair playing field for Florida businesses by requiring the collection of existing taxes that are owed, but not currently collected from out-of-state online retailers. Revenue derived from those collections is used to replenish the Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund depleted by the COVID-19 Pandemic, ensuring necessary compensation is available for Florida workers seeking re-employment. When the trust fund reaches pre-pandemic levels, the law automatically triggers a permanent reduction in the business rent tax.
2020: House Bill 7097 established Back-to-School and Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays.
2018 and 2019: House Bills 7087 (2018) and 7123 (2019) established Back-to-School and Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays, reduced the business rent tax, and created several exemptions related to hurricane response, preparedness and recovery.
2017: House Bill 7109 established Back-to-School and Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays, created a sales tax exemption for feminine hygiene products, and reduced the business rent tax.
2016: House Bill 7099 permanently eliminated the sales tax for machinery and manufacturing equipment, and established a Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday.
2015: House Bill 33-A permanently decreased the communication services tax on Floridians’ phones and television services, instituted a Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, and among other tax relief measures, eliminated the sales tax charged to returning service members and their families who purchased a vehicle overseas.
2014: House Bill 5601 established Back-to-School and Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays; created permanent sales tax exemptions for children’s car seats, booster seats, and bicycle helmets; and provided a nearly $400 million reduction in vehicle registration fees. The legislation reduced certain annual fees paid to register a motor vehicle to the amount paid prior to 2009. In addition to other tax relief measures passed in 2014, this legislation provided annual fee relief to every Floridian who registers a car or truck.
Here is a small list of recent tax reform measures that Thad and his legislative colleagues supported during this year's 2024 Legislative Session:
PROPERTY INSURANCE TAX RELIEF FOR HOMEOWNERS
HB 7073 includes a one-year relief for residential property insurance policyholders, covering the cost of insurance premium tax and the State Fire Marshal assessment for residential property insurance policies written between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025, for a twelve-month coverage period.
The bill also includes a one-year insurance premium tax relief on flood insurance policies, reducing the cost of flood insurance policies written between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025.
PROPERTY TAX RELIEF
House Joint Resolution 7017 proposes an amendment to the Florida Constitution requiring the current $25,000 homestead exemption, which is applied to all ad valorem taxes other than school district taxes, be adjusted annually for positive inflation growth. The amendment will be considered by Florida voters at the 2024 general election and, if approved by 60 percent of the electors voting on the measure would take effect on January 1, 2025. If passed, the amendment is expected to save Florida homeowners $22.8 million during the first year, growing to $111.7 million by Fiscal Year 2028-29.
SMALL BUSINESS TAX RELIEF
HB 7073 provides a $5 million credit for three years against the corporate income tax for businesses employing persons with unique abilities of $1,000 per employee.
Additionally, the bill provides for a $5 million credit for three years for businesses for child care expenses incurred on behalf of employees.
The bill also increases the annual cap for the Strong Families Tax Credit Program from $20 million to $40 million. The Strong Families Tax Credit Program was created in 2021 to provide tax credits for businesses that make monetary donations to certain eligible charitable organizations focused on child welfare and well-being.
BROAD-BASED TAX RELIEF
Over the last several years, as state revenues have increased, the Florida Legislature has held the line on spending and prioritized broad-based tax relief for Florida’s families and businesses.
2023: As part of a historic tax relief package, House Bill (HB) 7063 provided permanent tax relief on key items utilized by growing families and seniors. The bill created a permanent sales tax exemption on the sale of baby and toddler diapers, wipes, clothing, shoes, strollers, cribs and many other baby and toddler safety items. The legislation also created a permanent tax exemption on the retail sale of adult diapers and incontinence products and oral hygiene products, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss. Further, the bill created a permanent sales tax exemption on certain materials used in agricultural operations, and reduced the business rent tax. Additionally, the bill froze the local cell phone and TV tax (local communications services tax) rates for three years. The local communications services tax rate in effect on January 1, 2023, may not be increased before January 1, 2026.
2022: House Bill 7071, delivered over $1 billion in broad-based tax savings to families across Florida, with a focus on long- and short-term sales tax relief. The legislation resulted in savings for Floridians preparing for Hurricane Season and the 2022-2023 school year, with added tax relief to benefit those raising young children, purchasing energy efficient appliances or skilled worker tools; as well as, individuals and families enjoying outdoor activities and events. With gas prices at an all-time high the previous year, a month-long gas tax holiday provided key relief for Florida families and businesses. The bill also eliminated property taxes for homeowners who suffered losses in the Champlain Towers condominium collapse in Surfside, Florida, and expanded existing property tax relief for deployed military service members, widows, widowers and blind or disabled Floridians.
2021: House Bill 7061 established Back-to-School, Disaster Preparedness, and Freedom Week Sales Tax Holidays, created a permanent tax exemption for independent living items, and expanded the tax credit for affordable housing. SB 50 prevented an unexpected tax hike on businesses by replenishing the unemployment compensation trust fund. The bill created a fair playing field for Florida businesses by requiring the collection of existing taxes that are owed, but not currently collected from out-of-state online retailers. Revenue derived from those collections is used to replenish the Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund depleted by the COVID-19 Pandemic, ensuring necessary compensation is available for Florida workers seeking re-employment. When the trust fund reaches pre-pandemic levels, the law automatically triggers a permanent reduction in the business rent tax.
2020: House Bill 7097 established Back-to-School and Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays.
2018 and 2019: House Bills 7087 (2018) and 7123 (2019) established Back-to-School and Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays, reduced the business rent tax, and created several exemptions related to hurricane response, preparedness and recovery.
2017: House Bill 7109 established Back-to-School and Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays, created a sales tax exemption for feminine hygiene products, and reduced the business rent tax.
2016: House Bill 7099 permanently eliminated the sales tax for machinery and manufacturing equipment, and established a Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday.
2015: House Bill 33-A permanently decreased the communication services tax on Floridians’ phones and television services, instituted a Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, and among other tax relief measures, eliminated the sales tax charged to returning service members and their families who purchased a vehicle overseas.
2014: House Bill 5601 established Back-to-School and Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays; created permanent sales tax exemptions for children’s car seats, booster seats, and bicycle helmets; and provided a nearly $400 million reduction in vehicle registration fees. The legislation reduced certain annual fees paid to register a motor vehicle to the amount paid prior to 2009. In addition to other tax relief measures passed in 2014, this legislation provided annual fee relief to every Floridian who registers a car or truck.
Public Safety & Emergency Management
I'm dedicated to prioritizing public safety, with a strong focus on supporting our sheriff and fire protection services, as well as emergency management operations. Our community's safety is paramount, and I'm committed to ensuring that our first responders have the resources, training, and support they need to keep residents safe. By investing in modern equipment and technology, fostering collaboration between agencies, promoting community policing initiatives, emphasizing emergency preparedness and response planning, and enhancing our emergency management operations, we can build a safer and more resilient Space Coast for all residents.
Military & Veterans
Brevard County has the 6th highest population of veterans in Florida. Thad Altman has sponsored numerous bills to help veterans. This year, Thad cosponsored the “Don Hahnfeldt Veteran & Military Family Opportunity Act” making it easier for veterans, service members, and their families to do business in Florida and declared March 25th “Medal of Honor Day” in the State of Florida.
For more information about Military & Veterans benefits and legislation, please visit www.flmilitary.com
For more information about Military & Veterans benefits and legislation, please visit www.flmilitary.com
Aerospace
Thad Altman recognizes that the Space Coast is developing into the Silicon Valley of the Commercial Space Industry. As the past Chair of the Senate Military and Veterans Affairs, Space, and Domestic Security Committee, Thad championed space friendly laws and appropriations that have led to the rebirth of our Space Coast. He has helped secure more than $100 million for space-related projects and programs.
Natural Resources
Thad Altman knows that the health of the Indian River Lagoon is one of the most pressing issues in Brevard County. Thad has secured over $100 million in state funding for the Indian River Lagoon and sponsored a bill to appropriate $30 million a year to the lagoon. He also sponsored legislation to restore the Everglades and control runoff into the Indian River Lagoon.
Quality-of-Life & Community Development
I'm dedicated to enhancing residents' quality of life by supporting key county departments. Parks & Recreation, Libraries, Community Development, Cultural Affairs, and Health and Human Services play critical roles in promoting well-being and social cohesion. Investing in parks and recreational facilities fosters community engagement and healthy lifestyles, while libraries serve as educational hubs for lifelong learning. Community development initiatives support economic growth and affordable housing, while cultural affairs programs enrich the community's cultural fabric. Additionally, health and human services provide vital resources for promoting public health and supporting vulnerable populations. By enabling these departments and investing in their programs, we can create a more vibrant and resilient Space Coast for all residents.
Immigration Reform
No one has been tougher than Thad Altman on illegal immigration. Thad personally sponsored a bill that would’ve required companies to electronically verify the citizenship status of employees. He cosponsored HB 9 which set out to BAN sanctuary cities in Florida.
“Our Cities should be Sanctuaries for Americans - not for criminal aliens!”
~President Donald Trump~
~President Donald Trump~
While Washington neglects its responsibility to secure our border, Florida continues to step up. Currently, Florida law enforcement officers, State Troopers, Florida National Guard, and members of the Florida State Guard are deployed at the border, assisting Texas officials in stemming the tide of illegal immigration into our country.
Last year, Florida delivered the strongest anti-illegal immigration bill in the nation: expanding E-Verify to private employers, increasing penalties for human smuggling, and dedicating funding to send more illegal immigrants to more sanctuary jurisdictions.
This year, Thad and his legislative peers built upon those efforts to curb and address illegal immigration by:
- Increasing penalties for driving without a valid driver’s license, including a mandatory jail sentence for repeat offenders.
- Restricting the documents that can be used to receive a state-issued ID card; and,
- Increasing penalties for illegal immigrant felons who have already been deported and have illegally reentered our country.