The South Florida Police Benevolent Association (SFLPBA) announced its endorsement of Rep. Alex Rizo (R-Hialeah) for Florida's open Senate District 39 seat by praising his support of law enforcement and work protecting first responders.
The SFLPBA cited Rep. Rizo's sponsorship of Florida's HALO Law, which allows first responders (police officer/firefighter/paramedic) to establish a 25-foot buffer after issuing a warning to individuals who try to approach or engage during their duties. Interference under the law is a second-degree misdemeanor and may carry a $500 fine or 60 days in jail.
"[Alex Rizo] made law and order a priority throughout his illustrious public service career including sponsoring transformative legislation such as Florida's HALO Law, that provides protections to public safety personnel when doing their dangerous jobs, as well as being dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of the residents you represent and our members protect," South Florida PBA President Steadman Stahl said.
The SFLPA, with 6,500 members from 40 area agencies, is a chapter of the Florida Police Benevolent Association (FLPBA). The FLPBA is the largest police union in the state.
Rep. Rizo thanked the SFLPBA for its endorsement.
“Supporting the men and women of law enforcement has been a priority throughout my time in public service, and I am deeply grateful to President Stahl and the South Florida PBA for their confidence in me,” Rizo said. “Our officers put themselves in harm’s way to protect our families and communities. I was proud to work alongside law enforcement to pass the HALO Law and provide officers with additional protections while they are doing their jobs. In the Florida Senate, I will continue working with law enforcement on public safety and the challenges officers face in the line of duty.”
The SFLPA's support follows an endorsement from Sweetwater Mayor JosĂ© “Pepe” DĂaz and Gov. Ron DeSantis for Florida's open SD 39 seat earlier this month. Rizo has also been endorsed Florida State Fraternal Order of Police.
