Welcome to another exclusive interview on Port St. Lucie Talks! In this episode, host Dash Hernandez sits down with Dana Trabulsy, a member of the Florida House of Representatives for District 84. Dana shares her inspiring journey, community initiatives, and legislative accomplishments that impact Port St. Lucie and the entire state.
Insights from Dana Trabulsy, Member of the Florida House of Representatives
Dana Trabulsy’s Background and Career Path
Dana Trabulsy’s career has been marked by her strong commitment to public service. From her early days in marketing and communications to becoming a state representative, she has focused on community-driven philanthropy and leadership. In this interview, Dana shares how her experience working in marketing for Kveli Enterprises, the franchisee of Panera Bread, inspired her to take her philanthropic efforts to a new level.
Key Legislative Accomplishments
Education Initiatives in Florida
New World’s Reading Initiative
Dana discusses her successful efforts in passing the New World’s Reading Initiative, which focuses on improving literacy rates across Florida. This initiative provides free book deliveries to children in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and Creole, helping build home libraries and fostering a love for reading.
Science-Based Reading Curriculum
Dana also touches on her work to reintroduce science-based reading methods, moving away from less effective techniques like “three cueing” and returning to phonics-based education.
Advocacy for Mental Health and Well-being
Addressing Mental Health Challenges in Florida
Dana Trabulsy has been a vocal advocate for expanding mental health services across the state. She discusses the challenges of providing adequate mental health support, particularly in schools and underserved communities, and highlights legislation like the Live Healthy bill aimed at expanding access to mental health care.
Personal Passion Projects
The John W. Ray Act
Dana shares a deeply personal story about her brother, who passed away from AIDS in 1995. Motivated by his memory, she has championed legislation related to HIV prevention, including securing $1 million annually for HIV research and expanding access to lifesaving medications like PrEP and PEP. The John W. Ray Act, named in honor of her brother, makes PEP medication available over the counter in Florida, helping to prevent HIV transmission.
Community Involvement and Engagement
Working with St. Lucie County’s Board of Commissioners
Dana provides an example of a recent collaboration with the St. Lucie County Board of County Commissioners. Together, they successfully passed a local bill to limit hospital charges for inmates, aligning with state regulations. This measure is projected to save St. Lucie County $11 million annually.
Future Goals and Vision for Port St. Lucie
Sustainable Growth in St. Lucie County
Dana expresses concern about the rapid growth in western Port St. Lucie and emphasizes the importance of protecting Florida’s agricultural land. She shares her vision of balancing development with sustainability to ensure the state’s farmers and natural resources are preserved.
Combatting Chronic Absenteeism in Schools
Looking ahead, Dana plans to reintroduce legislation aimed at addressing chronic absenteeism in schools, a growing issue exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. She believes the key to solving this problem lies in understanding the root causes and providing support rather than punishment.
How to Get Involved in Your Community
Dana encourages local residents to find ways to get involved in the community, whether by supporting mental health initiatives, volunteering with the Treasure Coast Food Bank, or advocating for children through local school programs. Port St. Lucie offers a variety of opportunities for citizens to make a meaningful impact.
Watch the Full Interview with Dana Trabulsy
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