The debate about the regulation of gas stoves has been heating up in recent weeks.[0] On January 8th, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced that it would consider regulations on indoor air pollution from gas stoves.[0] This was followed by a study that showed that gas-burning stoves are responsible for 12.7 percent of childhood asthma cases nationwide.[1] This caused a stir amongst conservatives, who feared government intervention and leveraged the outrage machine to avoid confronting the issue.
On February 1st, Governor Ron DeSantis released the proposed Fiscal 2023-2024 Framework for Freedom Budget, which included items such as eradication and control of pythons and other nonnative fish and wildlife species, enhanced protections for Florida’s manatees and sea turtles, and statewide seagrass restoration support.[2] This budget is evidence of Governor DeSantis’ commitment to protecting Florida’s natural resources and providing tax relief to citizens.[2]
On February 20th, DeSantis proposed a ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in Florida colleges, including critical race theory.[3] This move has been met with opposition from many, leading to a further discussion of the history of African Americans, including the history of African peoples before the political conflicts that led to the development of slavery, and the history and contributions of Americans of the African diaspora to society.[4]
Finally, DeSantis has also questioned the jury process on the death penalty, suggesting that the law should be changed so that only 8 out of 12 jurors have to agree, instead of requiring a unanimous decision.[5] This has caused further outrage from those who want to protect the rights of minorities and ensure that the justice system is fair and equitable for all.
It is clear that the decisions made by Governor DeSantis will have a lasting impact on the state of Florida, and the nation as a whole. As the discussion continues, it is important to consider all perspectives and ensure that the rights of everyone are respected and upheld.
0. “Ron DeSantis pushes permanent Florida sales-tax exemption for …” www.morningstar.com, 23 Feb. 2023, https://www.morningstar.com/news/marketwatch/202302011202/ron-desantis-pushes-permanent-florida-sales-tax-exemption-for-gas-stoves
1. “The Fiery Gas Stove Wars | The New Republic” newrepublic.com, 23 Feb. 2023, https://newrepublic.com/article/170246/fiery-gas-stove-wars
2. “FWC: Governor Ron DeSantis’ Framework for Freedom Budget …” www.midfloridanewspapers.com, 23 Feb. 2023, https://www.midfloridanewspapers.com/polk_news_sun/fwc-governor-ron-desantis-framework-for-freedom-budget-promotes-natural-resource-restoration-initiatives-and-supports/article_9a37a7f8-aed1-11ed-87eb-abdaed5e19d2.html
3. “Trust & Verify: Gov. Ron DeSantis takes steps to ban diversity, equity …” www.winknews.com, 23 Feb. 2023, https://www.winknews.com/2023/02/02/trust-verify-gov-ron-desantis-takes-steps-to-ban-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-programs-at-florida-colleges/
4. “NBC Won’t Correct, Comment on Ron DeSantis Slavery Lie – OutKick” www.outkick.com, 23 Feb. 2023, https://www.outkick.com/nbc-wont-correct-comment-on-ron-desantis-slavery-lie/
5. “Ron DeSantis wants to end unanimous jury for death penalty, thus …” boingboing.net, 23 Feb. 2023, https://boingboing.net/2023/01/24/ron-desantis-wants-to-end-unanimous-jury-for-death-penalty-thus-more-executions-video.html
