State lawmakers are discussing how to make good on a mapmaking process tainted by political influence. Meanwhile two Democrats want to impose penalties—up to being kicked out of office—for any map misconduct in the future.
While state lawmakers pull their hair out over how to draw Senate borders, Sen. Darren Soto (D-Kissimmee) and Rep. Dwight Dudley (D-St. Petersburg) are thinking about consequences—or better, the lack thereof. Dudley says more needs to be done if Florida finds itself in this position again someday.
“We have to have, there have to be penalties there has to be some review of what happens and an ability to mete out punishment if you violate the law,” Dudley says.
The bill envisions a fine of up to $5,000 for offending lawmakers as well as censure or even expulsion from their chamber.