Miya’s Law moves to House and Senate after passing final committee hearing

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A bill that would improve tenant safety in apartment buildings is one step closer after passing a final committee hearing in Tallahassee Monday.

Senate Bill 998 and House Bill 588, known collectively as “Miya’s Law,” passed the state Senate Appropriations and the state House Commerce committees.

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The bills, sponsored by state Senator Linda Stewart (D - Orlando) and state Representative Robin Bartleman (D - Weston), would improve tenant safety in apartment buildings through background screenings of employees.

Miya’s Law refers to Miya Marcano, a former Valencia College student who was found murdered in Orlando last October.

READ: Florida lawmakers, Miya Marcano’s family rally in favor of increasing renter safety

Investigators said Armando Caballero, a maintenance worker at Arden Villas where Marcano lived, is believed to be the person responsible for kidnapping and killing Marcano.

Detectives said Caballero used his master key to wait for Miya in her apartment before abducting her.

READ: Miya’s Law: Florida lawmakers propose legislation to impose stricter rules on apartment managers

Stewart, whose district covers the area where Miya lived, said she was thrilled with the committee’s decision.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their homes, and today’s unanimous vote brings us a step closer to establishing important protections for all renters,” said Stewart.

The bill now moves to the House and Senate floors where it will receive its final votes.

Video: Miya’s Law unanimously passes first committee hearing State Sen. Linda Stewart went in front of lawmakers on Tuesday to fight for tenant safety in the name of Miya Marcano. (Chantelle Navarro, WFTV.com)

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