WALTON COUNTY, Fla. – Today, Governor Rick Scott visited Tampa, Jacksonville, and DeFuniak Springs to highlight his action plan to make major changes to help keep Florida students safe, including a $500 million investment in school safety and mental health.
“The Parkland Shooting is a tragedy that affects not only Broward County, but the state of Florida, and really the United States,” said Sheriff Michael Adkinson to begin the press conference. “Our fundamental mission is the protection and safety and well-being of our children.”
The Governor’s proposal, which was announced last week, followed the emergency meetings Governor Scott organized with law enforcement, school administrators, teachers, mental health experts, and state agency leadership, as well as meetings the Governor hosted with students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.
“What you have here is a united, dedicated front saying we believe the plan made by Governor Scott is the most significant improvement in the safety and well-being of our children proposed in my 25-year career,” said Adkinson.
Ten Northwest Florida Sheriffs were in attendance during today’s press conference held at Walton County Sheriff’s Office. In addition, three Chief of Police were also present.
“We’re standing in support of our Governor. We’re standing in support of our children. Governor, we’re here,” said Sheriff Adkinson.
To read Governor’s Scott’s full action plan click here.