FACT CHECK: X Image Makes False Claim About Bills DeSantis Recently Signed
An image shared on X claims Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed three new bills, one that purportedly makes June 27th Bible Day, one that purportedly certifies “male” as the official gender of Florida, and one that purportedly allows hospitals to sell beer and wine.
— Kylie Cheung (@kylietcheung) June 26, 2024
Verdict: False
The image is altered and stems from a June 25 video report from 10 Tampa Bay, which shows DeSantis signing bills that provide increased security for Jewish schools, define Anti-Semitism, and ban balloon releases, respectively.
Fact Check:
DeSantis recently vetoed $32 million in grants to “arts and culture nonprofit groups across Florida,” according to CBS News. DeSantis characterized the “overtly sexual” Orlando International Fringe Theater Festival as the reason he made the decision, Art News reported, citing the Tampa Bay Times.
The X image, viewed over 2,000 times, claims DeSantis signed three new bills, one that purportedly makes June 27th Bible Day, one that purportedly certifies “male” as the official gender of Florida, and one that purportedly allows hospitals to sell beer and wine. The image, which appears to be a broadcast graphic, shows DeSantis signing the bills during an official ceremony and appears to stem from Florida-based news outlet 10TampaBay.com.
The claim is false, as the image is altered. The image originally stems from a June 25 video report from 10 Tampa Bay and shows DeSantis signing bills that provide increased security for Jewish schools, define Anti-Semitism, and ban balloon releases, respectively. The image can be seen at the video’s 0:07-second mark.
Likewise, the Republican Governor’s website confirms he signed HB 187 (Anti-Semitism), HB 1109 (Security for Jewish Day Schools and Preschools), and CS/HB 321 (Release of Balloons) on June 24. According to WESH, HB 187 “aims to clearly define antisemitism under state law,” HB 1109 allows “law enforcement the ability to conduct a risk assessment and purchase security cameras, lighting and fences based on individual school needs,” and CS/HB 321 “makes it illegal for Florida residents to release balloons ‘inflated with a gas that is lighter than air’ into the atmosphere.” (RELATED: Is Donald Trump Excluded From Texas Ballot Due To The State’s Constitution?)
In addition, Check Your Fact found no credible news reports to support the claim made via the X image. Actually, the opposite is true. On June 29, USA Today reported the claim was false. Furthermore, DeSantis has not publicly commented on the claim via his verified social media accounts.
Check Your Fact has contacted DeSantis’ office for comment and will update this piece accordingly if one is received.
