Municipal officials representing all regions of the state participated in the Florida League of Cities (FLC) federal advocacy trip known as the Federal Action Strike Team (FAST) Fly-In. More than 50 Florida city officials came together in the nation’s capital to meet with Florida’s congressional delegation members and advocate for key federal issues that affect municipalities.

“Strong partnerships and open communication between local, state, and federal government agencies are essential to supporting our cities,” said FLC President Michael C. Blake, Mayor of Cocoa. “The League’s FAST Fly-In event provided a valuable opportunity to engage directly with our state’s congressional leaders and discuss key issues affecting our communities. We appreciate the congressional delegation’s time and commitment to these important discussions.”

During their time in the nation’s capital, local leaders urged Congress to support legislation safeguarding the tax-exempt status of municipal bonds. These bonds are essential tools for local governments to finance critical infrastructure projects.

In addition, they advocated for a long-term National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) reauthorization and support for legislation that would simplify the federal grants process. The group also focused its advocacy efforts on finding a long-term solution to PFAS in soil and water and providing federal liability protection for cities, among other issues.

Before heading to Capitol Hill, representatives from the FLC and National League of Cities (NLC) federal advocacy team provided a federal briefing. The group met with most members of Florida’s congressional delegation, including Senator Rick Scott.