Mark on Labor Issues, Part 3

11. What role should teachers and school related personnel play in developing education policy in the school district and on the statewide level?

"Collaborative negotiating should be encouraged so that the school districts and the unions are working together. This is working very well in Leon County."

12. Do you support the citizens’ ballot initiative process? Why or why not?

"Yes, I support the citizens’ ballot initiative process as a way to overcome Legislative refusal to address issues of great concern to the voters of Florida. The initiative process can serve as a spur to force the Legislature to address critical issues. In Florida the initiative process is the last line of defense against a runaway legislature dominated, bought and bossed by special interests. There are too many impediments and hurdles to thwart the people’s will and the citizens’ ballot initiative process is the only way, in some cases, to change policy or protect the people’s interests."

13. There have been many attempts in the last few years to place new restrictions on the ballot initiative process. Which of these, if any, do you support and why?

"I oppose efforts to place restrictions on the ballot initiative process. Through this process we have obtained an adjustable minimum wage. When the Legislature refuses to act then voters should have an alternative. The people must have a recourse and the fact that it is being chipped away at by the special interests only points out the need to enhance rather than restrict the initiative process."

14. What are your thoughts about economic development in Florida? Under what circumstances would you support tax exemptions or rebates as incentives for economic development?

"Economic development is the engine that strengthens the economy which allows citizens to make a living wage, provides for affordable health care and allows savings for a comfortable retirement. There are other ways than tax exemptions or rebates that the state can provide incentives for economic development. A stronger education system, better transportation links, a commitment to advanced computer technologies, reasonable utility rates, quality vocational-technical and apprenticeship training, and other factors are more important than exemptions and rebates."

15. Studies show that the long-term results of privatization are often higher costs and reduced quality. Still, public officials continue to look at contracting out of government services as the answer to their budget problems. Would you support or oppose legislation that would protect public sector jobs and maintain the integrity and qualify of public services?

"I would support legislation that would protect public sector jobs and maintain the integrity and quality of public services. Public records and public accountability are needed in these areas. You do not have such when public jobs and work are given to private companies."

16. Would you support legislation that would hold government agencies accountable for contracts with private companies and require accountability standards for those companies?

"Yes."