Grey Minds Think Ali.Ke

Episode 11: Talking Politics with Senator Lori Berman


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This is your go-to Podcast, where we help parents navigate the complexities of family life. Hosted by Ali Kessler of Greyson’s Choice, we’ll cover everything from understanding domestic violence to navigating the legal system, finding the right therapists, life hacks, family law, mental health, custody battles, and how to protect children in dangerous situations. 

Senator Lori Berman discusses her political journey, the intricacies of being a senator in Florida, and the challenges of passing legislation. She highlights her work on Greyson's Law, which aims to protect children from domestic violence and reflects on the broader issues of gun control and safety. The discussion emphasizes the importance of civic engagement, the role of constituents in shaping legislation, and the need for ongoing education and awareness around domestic violence and gun safety. In this conversation, Senator Berman discusses her legislative efforts, including the impact of Greyson’s Law, the flaws in the justice system, and her pivotal moments in politics. She emphasizes the importance of constituent services and community support while also sharing her personal interests and hobbies outside of her political career. This is a don’t-miss episode! Listen now! 

Takeaways

  • Senator Berman's political journey began in high school.
  • The primary responsibility of a senator is to pass a balanced budget.
  • Legislation often requires compromise and collaboration.
  • Greyson's Law was a response to a tragic case of domestic violence.
  • Gun safety legislation is a significant focus for Senator Berman.
  • Constituent feedback is crucial in shaping effective laws.
  • Education on domestic violence is essential for legal professionals.
  • The impact of Greyson's Law is still being evaluated.
  • Public awareness is needed for the effective implementation of laws.
  • Legislative battles require a strategic selection of issues. Greyson's Law aims to improve child safety in Florida.
  • The justice system has inherent flaws that need addressing.
  • Constituent services are a vital part of a legislator's role.
  • The Purple Alert helps locate missing individuals with disabilities.
  • Legislation can be influenced by personal experiences and advocacy.
  • Community support is crucial for effective legislation.

About Senator Lori Berman

Born in New York, New York, Senator Lori Berman earned a B.A. from Tufts University in 1980, a J.D. from George Washington University in 1983, and an LL.M. in estate planning from the University of Miami in 2002. She returned to Florida and, years later, attended the University of Miami School of Law, where she received a Master of Laws with a specialty in estate planning in 2002. While working as an attorney in South Florida, Berman became active in politics, working for the congressional campaigns of former Congressman Robert Wexler and in his congressional office.

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About Ali Kessler: Ali Kessler is a writer, marketing professional, passionate parent advocate, and founder of Greyson’s Choice, a 501(c)(3) created to raise awareness about the risk of domestic abuse on children. Greyson’s Choice was founded by Ali Kessler in memory of her sweet, vibrant, and fearless 4.5-year-old son, Greyson, who was murdered by his biological father in a murder-suicide during an unsupervised, court-approved visit in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, in 2021. This came just hours after her petition for a domestic violence injunction was denied by a Broward County judge, citing that the “petitioner has failed to allege any overt acts by the respondent which would constitute domestic violence under Florida Statute.”

Ali’s advocacy efforts culminated in successfully passing Greyson’s Law during the 2023 legislative session. This bill now requires the court to consider threats against ex-partners or spouses when making child visitation and custody determinations in the court, expanding to include the following factors: evidence of domestic violence, whether a parent in the past or currently has reasonable cause to believe that they or a minor child is, or has been in imminent danger of becoming the victim of domestic/sexual violence by the other parent, even if no other legal action has been brought or is currently pending in court.

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Grey Minds Think Ali.KeBy Ali Kessler