The Florida Division of Emergency Management (Division) held its 4th Annual Emergency Management Day at the Florida Capitol in Tallahassee. Several officials attended, including Division Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nunez, Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, Senator Corey Simon, Secretary of Commerce Alex Kelly, and Major General John D. Haas. The event recognized the Division and the State Emergency Response Team’s work.
Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez thanked the state’s emergency management personnel for their service to Florida. She mentioned their efforts in emergency preparation and response have set a standard for the nation. Senate President Kathleen Passidomo also commended the Division’s work, especially after Hurricane Ian, where the DEM teams supported Southwest Florida families and businesses.
Senator Corey Simon (R-Tallahassee) highlighted the importance of Florida’s emergency managers in severe weather situations. He mentioned their support during Hurricane Idalia, which hit the Big Bend last fall. Simon expressed trust in the Big Bend community’s resilience and the emergency management personnel’s dedication to recovery.