6th grader sees idea become law

[Jack Davis of Miami is congratulated by Gov. Charlie Crist on Tuesday after the signing of a law that allows restaurants to donate leftover food to the homeless. Times photo | Scott Keeler]

Think lawmakers in Tallahassee don't hear your ideas? Don't tell that to 11-year-old Jack Davis.

Davis watched today as Gov. Charlie Crist signed into law a bill that would allow restaurants to donate leftover food to homeless shelters. Davis, a 6th-grader at Ransom Everglades Middle School in Miami, came up with the idea after learning that restaurant owners throw out leftover food because they could be held liable if the food makes someone sick. Davis wanted a bill that would eliminate the liability, and he managed to find sponsors in the House and Senate.

How did he do that? "It was through a bunch of connections," Davis told reporters.

He said he started with Miami trial attorney Steve Marino. Davis' father, Jeffrey, a personal injury attorney, said he's "indescribably" proud of his son. Tampa Sen. Arthenia Joyner amended the bill so it would be named after young Davis. "This will be good for kids to know their ideas can become laws," she said.

Comments

What is meant by left-over food?

Charlie has had the suit forever...

I find it a bit ironic that hid dad and his "connection" would surely take the case against the restaurant owner who served the allegedly tainted food. Where did the Florida Justice Association stand on the bill?

Ransom Everglades represent!

Looking for the Trial Lawyers to amend the liability clause in 3...2...1...

"Great idea little Johnny, or whatever the @#$& your name is...now let's just change this wording right here, mmmmK?"

Good Lord, Chuck has gotten so bad, he's starting to blow photo ops!

RECALL "THE PEOPLE'S MISTAKE"!

[Tiffany]

Why are you people being so ignorant? Let the restaurants feed the homeless with out the liability. Get over yourselves. You are being stupid. It doesn’t have anything to do with you. Thank God we still have sane children in our society. Who cares who the “Connections” are he is doing a smart thing.

[Omega83]

Restaurants can now take a proactive role in the homeless problem. Just slip aresenic into the leftovers.

Relax Tiffany -

We're on your side...it makes perfect sense to eliminate the liability for a restaurant.

It's just weird that this was pushed by a personal injury attorney...Trial Lawyers don't usually eliminate liability on anything, so that is why people get suspicious.

Can't trust Trial Lawyers. Period.

Somebody donate Chuck a suit...please!

[Hatori Hanzo]

I find it hard to be cynical about this. Sure, it's not property taxes or insurance relief. But it just goes to show what even older children can accomplish if they'll stop screwing around and pay attention.

[deano]

Is that the steak that I used for an ashtray? Maybe my ex will get it.

[deano]

Is that the steak that I used for an ashtray? Maybe my ex will get it. I can only hope.

CC should donate that suit to the homeless.

I worked in a restaurant during college, you would not believe the amount of food that was prepared but nevered served.

Never*

[Joe - Joe]

Reluctantly I say, I am glad I live in Vermont. Such a great story, such a great gesture...and way to much negative. Having family in Pinellas County I really try to stay abreast of the going on. Now let me tell you what this "outsider" sees. A young man whom really accomplished more in his young life that any of you all filled with negative comment. An education in state government, most likely, bonding with his Dad. To those of you that can't understand a personal injury lawyer assisting in this matter, perhaps you are missing the fact that it's a father helping and educating his son.
Stay cool!

Wow a trial lawyer supports liability waivers. Does this mean the trial bar hates the homeless? I always knew they were a shiesty bunch.

[Dave]

How could a guy who makes that much money dress so bad?

[Free Food!]

I love leftovers! I can provide my GPS coordinates if I could get a cut of Mel's three day old meatloaf airdropped next to my tent.

You're all a bunch of cynics who would turn such a good faith idea into all sorts of criticisms and conspiracy theories as to the true intention of the bill.

Other possible caption:

Still dressed as Mark Twainn, the governor steps into what young Jack tells him is the office where the governor is supposed to work.

Who is on the "field trip" to the governor's office? Jack or Charlie?

[Dave W]

On the suit: I think my grandmother has that same pattern on a couch in her basement.

On the bill: it is a nice idea, but how old can the food be? Are we talking about the leftover bread and soup from that night, dishes that were sent back for whatever reason, or what?

[Jen]

Now maybe someone will make a law that allows stores to donate unpurchased magazines to local hospitals, doctors offices, and shelters.

Seriously....the average large supermarket throws away a minimum of two full shopping carts of magazines per week. Let them be donated for something good instead of going into the trash.

[Sip'n Mint Juleps]

I like that suite. It reminds me of a Southern Gentleman. A white hat would really complement the look. Perhaps a walking stick to boot.

[bird]

I doubt there is a law against donating the magazines. Make the suggestion of donating to the supermarket management.

I heard this kid was working the floor getting petitions signed for his Speakership.

8:59, your post is hysterical....and sadly could be true.

8:26 maybe some darkies to fan him

This kid thinks he's sooooo cool.

[Donald Lance]

Jack Davis for Governor! Finally, some common sense. Here is a 6th grader acting for the betterment and we have pols acting like 6th graders.

This has nothing to do with his father's profession. It has to do with doing the right thing. Jack's father may have provided him with a contact but the rest was all his doing.

[Cool]

He did the right thing

[:)]

omg ! i luv that kid, he goes 2 my school ! hes so funny ! i hang ou w/ him a lot !!!!!!!!