Florida: Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Executive Order Suspending Regina Hill as Orlando City Commissioner
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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. ~ TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - In a move that has sparked controversy and raised questions about the integrity of local government officials, Governor Ron DeSantis has issued Executive Order 24-63, suspending City Commissioner Regina Hill from her position in the City of Orlando.

According to the order, Hill's suspension is in accordance with the Florida Constitution and sections 112.51(1) and 112.51(2) of the Florida Statutes. The decision comes after Hill was indicted on multiple charges by the Circuit Court of the Ninth Judicial Circuit in Orange County on March 27, 2024.

The charges against Hill include three counts of Exploitation of Elderly Person or Disabled Person Greater than $50,000, one count of Scheme to Defraud of $50,000 or More, one count of Fraudulent Use of Personal Identification Over $100,000, and one count of Mortgage Fraud Greater than $100,000.

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Under Article IV, section 7(c) of the Florida Constitution, Governor DeSantis has the power to suspend any elected municipal officer who has been indicted for a crime until they are acquitted. The office can then be filled by appointment for the duration of the suspension but cannot extend beyond their term unless otherwise stated by law or municipal charter.

Section 112.51(1) of the Florida Statutes allows for a governor to suspend an elected municipal officer for various reasons including malfeasance, misfeasance, neglect of duty, habitual drunkenness, incompetence or permanent inability to perform official duties.

Similarly, section 112.51(2) states that a governor may also suspend an elected municipal officer who has been indicted or informed against for committing a state felony or misdemeanor.

For those interested in reading a copy of Executive Order 24-63 in its entirety can do so by clicking here. This decision by Governor DeSantis has sparked discussions about the role of local government officials and the importance of upholding ethical standards in public office.

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