A proposal to extend term limits for state lawmakers from 8 years to 12 years is headed to the Senate floor after a “slick move” this afternoon from Senate Community Affairs Committee Chairman Mike Bennett, R-Bradenton. The measure would have to be approved by 60 percent of state votes in 2010.

Bennett added his amendment to a bill from Sen. Dave Aronberg, D-Greenacres. Aronberg’s bill (SJR 1550) was designed to give a property tax break to disabled veterans.

“The reality is the political process and to get a bill through the process you have to work with other members,” Aronberg said.

Bennett said his intent was to create two separate ballot questions within one bill. It was not clear if that was possible. If not, Bennett said he would remove his amendment on the Senate floor.

Statehouse gadfly Brian Pitts told the committee it was a “slick move” at best from Bennett and “dishonest” at worst. He was reprimanded by Sen. Thad Altman, R-Melbourne.

Tags: Dave Aronberg, State Senate, term limits

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