Miya Marcano's father testifies against Florida bill proposing changes to property owner liability
On Tuesday, supporters and critics of Senate Bill 236, which deals with civil remedies, gathered in Tallahassee to express their opinions.
The bill had a diverse group of attendees, including victims of sex trafficking, families of murdered loved ones, and business owners. Among those who testified was Marlon Marcano, the father of murdered Valencia College student Miya Marcano.
"Miya Marcano is my daughter, and on Sept. 24, 2021, she was murdered,” Marlon Marcano said.
Marlon Marcano opposed Senate Bill 236, which critics argue removes the burden on property owners to keep properties secure from reasonable threats.
"She was murdered in the apartment where she lived and also worked for these people. I oppose this bill," he said.
Miya Marcano was murdered by a maintenance worker who entered her unit with an apartment key fob in the Arden Villas Luxury Apartments in Orange County.
The bill aims to reduce what its sponsor calls nonsense lawsuits while ensuring that the civil justice system treats plaintiffs and defendants fairly.
Supporters of the bill, like Gate Petroleum of Jacksonville, which employs 2,600 Floridians, say it has seen insurance premiums increase by 500 percent.
Holly Wozniack, the risk manager for Gate Petroleum, said, "Gate has lost countless hours and dollars fighting frivolous lawsuits because in our state's current legal climate, businesses acting in good faith don't stand a chance. On behalf of Gate, I ask you to support this bill and balance the scales of justice."
Marlon Marcano and other victims' families who spoke said it's not just the perpetrator at fault.
"All parties have to be held accountable. You can't put blame on one person or one focus. It has to be all parties who are involved that have to be held accountable," he said.
Miya's Law, named after Miya Marcano, aims to increase residential tenant safety by requiring apartment landlords to conduct background checks on employees. Her father fears Senate Bill 236 could dilute that.
"To an extent, yes, because like I said, we fought very hard for Miya's Law to pass. We did that in hopes of protecting everybody in the long run," he said.
As for the vote, it was eight yeas and four nays.
"I believe this language will not eliminate Miya's Law. Rather, I like the idea of the apartments having the available safety checks; I think that will be very helpful," state Sen. Linda Stewart, a Democrat from Orange County, said.
There is also a companion bill in the House, HB 837. Supporters say at least 12 other states have similar legislation.
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