This morning, CS/HB 1383 ( J. Grant ), which amends the Bert J. Harris Act passed the House Commerce Committee by a vote of 21-2. Click here for the vote.

Please thanks Reps. Evan Jenne and Jennifer Webb for voting "No" on CS/HB 1383.

CS/HB 1383 significantly amends the Bert J. Harris Act and substantially handicaps local government ability to resolve these claims.

The House Commerce Committee also passed HB 1159 ( La Rosa ), relating to tree-trimming and removal, by a vote of 19-4. Click here for the vote.

Please thank Reps. Javier Fernandez , Evan Jenne , Richard Stark and Matt Willhite for voting "No" on HB 1159.

HB 1159 prohibits local governments from requiring a permit for tree trimming and removal under certain circumstances and would encourage residents to trim and remove trees before, during and after a storm, creating dangerous debris and possibly putting people in harm's way.

Click here to watch the committee hearing. HB 1383 is the first bill considered by the committee and consideration of HB 1159 begins at 2:54:14.