The annual Florida Legislative Session gets underway Tuesday, and our state representatives are looking to pass bills on everything from help for people with disabilities to preventing pool drownings to mental health care for teachers.

Amid debate about issues such as privacy and protecting vulnerable seniors, a House panel Thursday approved a proposal that would require nursing homes and assisted living facilities to allow video cameras and other electronic monitoring devices in residents’ rooms.

Incumbent Republican State Rep. Susan Plasencia is up against Democrat Nate Douglas for the Florida House of Representatives’ District 37 seat.

Incumbent Republican State Rep. Susan Plasencia is up against Democrat Nate Douglas for the Florida House of Representatives’ District 37 seat.

Changes to redistricting in the Florida House mean a popular Democrat is facing a tough challenge from a first-time Republican candidate with a well-known last name.

Changes to redistricting in the Florida House mean a popular Democrat is facing a tough challenge from a first-time Republican candidate with a well-known last name.