Legislative Priorities
Representative Ausley’s legislative agenda has focused around the issues that are important to Tallahassee, Leon, and Jefferson Counties and the surrounding area; protection of state employees and state jobs; economic development; environmental protection; and education, particularly early childhood initiatives. She has focused on these issues both in the legislature and in her community activities.
There is no question Tallahassee and Leon County will continue to be impacted by government downsizing and outsourcing. This demonstrates the need to diversify our local economy by strengthening existing businesses and working to attract high tech development. Technology is a clean industry that pays salaries above the national average and creates a wealth of other business opportunities.
Ausley has worked closely with local government and key business leaders on economic development efforts ranging from a technology infrastructure assessment to the revitalization of the downtown area and the Gaines Street /Cascades Park corridor.
Representative Ausley believes that the key to economic development is a strong education system. Most businesses considering an expansion or relocation will consider the quality of an area’s education system. Unfortunately, Florida does not measure up with other states. Two reports released by the St. Pete Times and the Florida Chamber of Commerce have put Florida in the bottom quartile in every category related to education.
30th Lowest Teacher Salaries
43rd Highest Teacher / Student Ratio
49th in High School Graduations
49th in spending per capita on Education
To ensure that our state is competitive in the business field, Florida must make a commitment to quality education, beginning with early childhood initiatives.