Another TFG Client Wins Big This Session – Floridians Benefit

Ever heard of an epinephrine auto-injector? For many Floridians, epinephrine auto-injectors like the EpiPen are a life-line for treating severe allergic reactions.

Thanks in part to The Fiorentino Group’s work this legislative session, the “Emergency Allergy Treatment Act” – a bill that increases access to epinephrine auto-injectors for authorized entities – was signed into law by Governor Rick Scott.

Now, businesses such as restaurants, camps, sports arenas and theme parks can legally stock and administer epinephrine auto-injectors to someone experiencing a life-threatening allergic reaction, often caused by serious food allergies. The law provides new “civil liability immunity protections” to these entities and certified persons.

TFG was engaged by one of the world’s leading generic and specialty pharmaceutical companies to educate lawmakers on the life-saving benefits of increased access to their product, the EpiPen.

“It was very rewarding to work on this important issue this Session. As a result of our efforts, countless lives may be saved now that children and adults have access to tools like the EpiPen that can prevent anaphylactic shock, caused by an allergic reaction,” said TFG Principal Mark Pinto.

Tom Griffin Joins TFG

The Fiorentino Group (TFG) is proud to announce that Tom Griffin will join the firm as Principal in the Tallahassee office.

Griffin brings solid government relations experience to TFG, spanning numerous industries in both the public and private sectors. Most recently, Griffin served as Chief of Staff to Senator Rob Bradley, where he specialized in the appropriations process and oversaw issues relating to criminal justice, health care, education, environment, insurance and finance.

“We’re excited to welcome Tom to our team,” said TFG President Marty Fiorentino. “His unique perspective, high energy and deep-rooted relationships across the state and in the legislature will be of great value to our clients.”

As TFG welcomes Griffin, we bid a fond farewell to Hubert “Bo” Bohannon.

Bohannon, who will retire in December 2014, has served as the Principal and Managing Director of TFG’s Tallahassee office since 2007. With a longstanding and impressive career in Florida government and state advocacy spanning nearly 40 years, Bohannon is recognized as a leading advocate on issues relating to real estate and land development, energy, telecommunications, appropriations and local government. He currently serves as chair of the Board of Directors of the Florida Association of Professional Lobbyists.

“Bo has been a tremendous asset to our firm and our clients over the last seven years. He’s a dear friend, and one who’s imparted a great deal of knowledge and insight to all of us here at TFG. His integrity and professionalism has been the gold standard in Tallahassee for nearly 40 years,” Fiorentino said. “We’ll certainly miss him, but we’re excited to welcome Tom on board as we continue to grow our practice.”

Joe Mobley Named to Jacksonville Business Journal’s 40 Under 40

TFG Principal Joe Mobley has been named to the Jacksonville Business Journal’s list of Jacksonville’s 40 most successful professionals under 40.

At an awards ceremony earlier this year, Joe was recognized alongside Jacksonville’s top talent. With 270 nominations submitted for the prestigious award, it was the most competitive in the publication’s history.

Congratulations, Joe!

Marty Fiorentino Named Finance Chair for Jacksonville Mayoral Candidate Lenny Curry

Jacksonville voters head to the polls to elect a new mayor in May of 2015.

With fundraising already in full-swing, Marty Fiorentino is serving as Campaign Finance Chair for former Florida GOP Chair and mayoral candidate Lenny Curry.

“Marty is a well-known, well-respected political mind – not only in Jacksonville, but across Florida and the U.S.,” said Curry. “I’m proud to have him as a friend and leading adviser.”

The Lenny Curry for Mayor Campaign has raised more than $1 million in its first three months. And according to Fiorentino, this is just the beginning.

“We’ve seen great success early on and I think that momentum will continue,” said Fiorentino. “What’s so impressive about Lenny and this campaign, is that it’s drawing-in engaged citizens and new donors that we haven’t seen before. This fresh energy is what will help Lenny win next year.”

The local primary election will take place in March 2015 and the general election in May 2015.

3 Things to Remember This Campaign Season

The November General Election is right around the corner. Keep these tips in mind as the big day draws near:

1. What’s at Stake

Much hangs in the balance this election, so it’s important to read-up on the candidates and the issues before heading to the polls. Here’s what Florida voters will be deciding statewide*:

*https://election.dos.state.fl.us/candidate/CanList.asp

2. Know Your Limits

Want to financially support your favorite candidate? Make sure you know and understand the campaign contribution limits:

  • Statewide candidates running for office and retention campaigns for Supreme Court justices can accept up to $3,000 per contributor, per election cycle (remember, corporations can contribute too!). Legislative candidates and other campaigns can accept up to $1,000 per contributor, per election cycle.
  • Not all political contributions are the same. While “hard money” contributions are limited (i.e. direct contributions to candidates), “soft money” contributions to political parties or PC’s can be unlimited.

3. Vote!

And of course, don’t forget to vote! Here are a few dates to remember:

  • Voter Registration Deadline: October 6, 2014
  • Absentee Ballot ‘Send’ Deadline: September 30 – October 7, 2014
  • Early Voting Period: October 25, 2014 – November 1, 2014*
  • General Election: November 4, 2014

*Each county Supervisor of Elections may at his or her own discretion offer additional days of early voting, in accordance with the law. You can learn more by visiting the Florida Division of Elections site: https://election.dos.state.fl.us/calendar/elecdate.shtml.

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