As Memorial Day arrived on the heels of a threat by President Bush to veto the new G.I. Bill, one local candidate felt inspired to act. Democrat Todd Maki, campaigning for the Florida House District 87, proposed that Florida should pick up the tab for any veteran that is a Florida resident and wants a higher education in the state. Though the new G.I. Bill has since been signed into law, Maki believes his proposal is still highly relevant.
Florida's population of 1.8 million veterans is the second highest in the nation. "The service of veterans protects our freedom to pursue our dreams. Let's help them pursue theirs. It’s the least we can do," says Maki. Under the proposal, veterans who are Florida residents and have not yet obtained a four year degree would be eligible to participate in a program to complete the degree, free of charge, within state colleges and universities.
Maki believes that providing this benefit to Florida's veterans is a great investment in human potential. Florida would lead by example and other states could follow. Maki states, "Despite their initial opposition, President Bush and Senator McCain have acquiesced to popular support for the new G.I. Bill, but Florida can and should do more."
For years, Todd Maki has served the community, as Student Trustee at Palm Beach Community College, as Founding Chairman of the Christian Leadership Association, and as a mentor in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Mentorship Program. In 2004 he received the Provost Award for Distinguished Service. Maki is currently facilitating an educational program on leadership for PBCC's Summer Youth College.
Todd Maki's passion for state government was kindled while attending Florida State University in Tallahassee. While there he worked in the Florida Senate for State Senator Dave Aronberg and former State Senator and current United States Representative Ron Klein.
Florida House District 87 includes parts of Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Briny Breezes, Deerfield Beach, Delray Beach, Village of Golf, Gulf Stream, Highland Beach, Hypoluxo, Lantana, Manalapan, and Ocean Ridge.
