My colleagues and I are continuing our efforts in attempting to get the Florida Scrub-Jay named as Florida's "official" state bird. There were 3 bills previously filed in 2022 regarding this issue; SB 378, SB 324, and HB 207. In 2023 there have been two (2) companion bills recently filed; SB 78 and HB 17. This effort has been with the legislature for 24 years and has repeatedly died in committee due to lobbying.

We joined the campaign effort for the 2022 legislative session and worked diligently in trying to get these bills heard and to give them the respect they deserve. We gained a lot of momentum and exposure through various media outlets and partnered with several organizations. Unfortunately, the bills once again died in committee. However, the momentum is ongoing, especially with the new companion bills filed this year (2023) and the new partnerships we have made. We will again present this petition along with endorsements of support to the Florida State Legislature during the 2023 legislative session. 

BACKGROUND ON THE STATE BIRD: Many have been taught that the Northern Mockingbird is our state bird. This is incorrect. In 1927 the Senate passed a resolution naming the Northern Mockingbird as the state bird, BUT it was never confirmed by the House of Representatives or signed into law by the Governor. Therefore, there is no "official" state bird. This can be confirmed by reviewing Chapter 15 in the state statutes. WE DO NOT HAVE A STATE BIRD. Additionally, there are four other states that have the Northern Mockingbird as their state bird - Tennessee, Texas, Mississippi, and Arkansas.

SOME REASONS FOR SUPPORT:

• The Florida Scrub-Jay is the ONLY bird endemic to Florida, which means it can NOT be found anywhere else due to specific habitat requirements and behavior patterns. It is representational of Florida’s environment and varied ecosystems. Therefore, no other state can support this species or have our state bird.
• The Florida Scrub-Jays' populations have plummeted 90% over the last century and that decline has accelerated over the last decade. This decline requires a heightened awareness and improved conservation efforts.
• With continued unbalanced development in our state and subsequent habitat fragmentation the need to bring attention to our Florida Scrub-Jay is imperative for its survival and needs additional support.
• The Florida Scrub-Jay’s color is a beautiful blue and reflects the beauty of our oceans and sky. They are intelligent, resourceful with a good memory and a friendly species. People enjoy being in their presence.
• Wildlife viewing activities are popular among residents and nonresidents alike and provide significant economic benefits for many individuals and businesses, composed of retailers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and support services grounded in our communities. These diverse players constitute a significant industry contributing approximately $5.8 billion to Florida’s economy.
• The Florida state bird should be a reflection and an official symbol that showcases the state’s natural treasures. The Florida Scrub-Jay is a bird we can be proud of that represents all Floridians and the enchanting nature of Florida.

HOW YOU CAN HELP!!!

Step 1: Please sign and share this petition.

Step 2: Most of all, attend legislative Town Halls and Hob Nobs and bring the issue to their attention. Make sure they know it's important to you. If you have time, meet with your legislators at their local office. Again, making sure they understand this issue is important to you. If you have an organization or group that supports naming the Florida Scrub-Jay as our state bird, invite your legislators to speak so they can hear this issue is important from their constituents firsthand. 

WE CAN DO THIS WITH YOUR SUPPORT- WE ARE STRONG TOGETHER!

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