- April 23, 2024
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Florida House representative Travis Hutson is giving 24 Flagler County students the chance to present a bill in Tallahassee this fall.
Hutson, the 28-year-old Republican District 24 representative, spoke to 12 students at FPC and 12 students at Matanzas High School on Monday morning. He explained the process of writing a bill for consideration before Florida government, and he answered questions from students.
Hutson, accompanied by four staff members, presented a mock committee meeting so students could see how a bill is presented in order to prepare them for Tallahassee.
Students can either prepare an individual bill or collaborate with other students.
Hutson said that the student-produced bill should steer clear of ideas that would have large fiscal impacts, unfunded mandates, tax-related adjustments and highly controversial issues.
The representative, who believes strongly in vocational training and skill-based education programs, said that the students would receive hands-on experience in government with this program.
“The possibilities are endless here,” he said.
Brandon Champion, a history teacher at FPC, said that Hutson’s program is a good opportunity for students to learn about the legislative process.
“They’re going to have a better understanding of the impact of state and local government on their lives,” he said.
Kelly Kastner, a 16-year-old FPC sophomore, said she is looking forward to meeting in Tallahassee. “I think it’s a great opportunity for us to get involved and share our ideas,” she said.
The representative’s district covers Flagler County, as well as parts of St. Johns and Volusia. Hutson said he chose Flagler high schools because they are a majority of his district.
The students will meet again in August to proceed with the bills. Hutson said he hopes to have all 24 students with him to present the bill in Tallahassee later this year, and he encouraged them to speak with professionals in their industries of interest and to be involved with his staff.
“You’re part of the collective process,” he said to FPC students. “I want your ideas.”
