Government Digest: April 30 - May 6

MPO plan comments sought
COLLIER COUNTY — The county's metropolitan planning organization (MPO) is seeking public comments on its proposed transportation improvement program through May 21. The plan covers fiscal years 2010-11 through 2014-15. The MPO board is scheduled to approve the plan at its June 11 meeting after considering public comments received during the public hearing. The hearing is set for 10 a.m. at the County Commission chambers on the third floor of the Harmon Turner Building (Administration Building F) Collier County Government Center, 3301 E. Tamiami Trail, Naples.

Commissioners vote to oppose Obamacare
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY — County commissioners voted 4-2 April 21 to send a letter supporting state Attorney General Bill McCollum's lawsuit claiming the federal health reform legislation is unconstitutional. Commissioner Jim Norman proposed the action. The two Democrats on the commission, Kevin White and Kevin Beckner opposed the motion.

Business impact bill approved
TALLAHASSEE — If state administrative rules have more than a $200,000 first-year impact on small business it will require further study per a House bill approved April 26. Under HB 1565, if the impact is more than $1 million during a five-year period, it will first require legislative action before the rule may be implemented.