From a community event with State Senator Jason Pizzo to a signing event with Governor Ron DeSantis, the State of Florida continues to show its commitment to its Jewish community.

 

This past Thursday, Agudath Israel of Florida sponsored an event with state Senator Jason Pizzo. The event was a great opportunity for members of the community to interact with Senator Pizzo and discuss issues of importance to them such as antisemitism and religious freedom. Senator Pizzo was also presented with a plaque from Agudath Israel of Florida and Hatzalah of South Florida recognizing him for sponsoring the bill that allows Hatzalah to operate with lights and sirens when responding to calls.

 

“We are really thankful to Senator Pizzo for the work he has done for the community and for the opportunity for members of the community to interact and personally thank him for his work in getting the Hatzalah bill passed,” said Rabbi Moshe Matz, executive director of Agudath Israel of Florida.

 

Then, on Monday, Rabbi Matz joined Governor Ron DeSantis at the Shul of Bal Harbor in Surfside for a historic dual signing event. At the event – also attended by Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nunez, State Representatives Mike Caruso and Randy Fine, and State Senator Jason Pizzo – Governor DeSantis signed two bills. HB 804 enables Hatzalah to operate with lights and sirens, and HB 529 mandates two minutes of silence at the start of class in public schools for meditation or prayer. Addressing the group, Governor DeSantis reiterated his commitment to the safety of the Jewish community and to fight against antisemitism. He also spoke about his support for Israel and the state of Florida’s partnerships with the Jewish state. “Through his words and actions Governor DeSantis continues to show his commitment to the Jewish community in Florida,” said Baruch Sandhaus, member of the board of Hatzalah of South Florida.

 

“Florida continues to lead the nation, whether in its partnerships with Israel, action against antisemitism, school choice, and now this Hatzalah bill. We are extremely grateful to Governor DeSantis, Senator Pizzo, and all those who continue to support the Jewish community in Florida,” concluded Rabbi Moshe Matz.