Jim Norman: A Lobbyist's Best Friend

Florida State Sen. Jim Norman has no credibility claiming that he is not influenced by lobbyists. Norman failed to disclose $500,000 the late Ralph Hughes gave Norman's wife $500,000 to purchase a house in Arkansas. Hughes donated to Norman's political campaigns. Norman claims the money was a loan and an investment on property. Hughes surving family want the money back.

Norman's first Senate bill (which I can't find online) would make structural changes to the Hillsborough County Public Transportation Commission. The PTC regulates taxi and limousine services that operate in Hillsborough County, Florida. Norman claims he talked to no lobbyists when making this bill.

Norman said he didn't consider the contributions when sponsoring the bill. "I didn't even speak with anyone from the cab industry," he said.

Documents filed in Hillsborough County lists Tampa Taxi Coalition Louis Betz as the person who prepared Norman's legislation. Betz has no idea how paperwork he filed would have his name on it.

Norman received $5,000 from the taxi and limo industry during his Senate campaign. Norman has zero credibility when he says lobbyists hold no sway on him.

Sen. Ronda Storms want to eliminate the PTC. Her reasoning is rather bizarre.

Storms: "They have a rule that says cabbies have to wear socks. I mean, please. Come on.