Florida Court Hears Challenge to Governor’s Freeze of Regulations

The Florida Supreme Court heard oral arguments this week in a challenge to Gov. Rick Scott’s suspension of state rulemaking.

The case heard Wednesday was filed on behalf of Rosalie Whiley, who is blind. She said the freeze delayed a rule that would have made it easier for her to reapply for food stamps.

Former Florida State University President Talbot “Sandy” D’Alemberte is representing Whiley. D’Alemberte is also a former American Bar Association president.

Scott’s general counsel, Charles Trippe, argued for the governor.

D’Alemberte contends Scott exceeded his authority by suspending laws on rulemaking by state agencies. Trippe says Scott acted within constitutional limits.

Scott froze the process when he took office in January to determine if any proposed rules might conflict with his pro-business agenda.