A Florida state representative behind the Parental Rights in Education bill, dubbed the 'Don't Say Gay' bill by critics, has been indicted on wire fraud, money laundering and making false statements charges.
Florida state Rep. Joe Harding listens during a Local Administration and Veterans Affairs Subcommittee hearing in a legislative session on Jan. 13, 2022, in Tallahassee, Fla.A Florida state representative behind the Parental Rights in Education bill, dubbed the "Don't Say Gay"by critics, has been indicted on wire fraud, money laundering and making false statements charges.
Harding, 35, allegedly sought Economic Injury Disaster Loans using the names of shuttered businesses. He is further alleged to have obtained falsified bank statements for one of those dormant businesses to obtain more than $150,000 in funds from the SBA. He pleaded not guilty to all charges in federal court Wednesday, according to court records. His trial is set for Jan. 11 next year.
As a state representative, Harding introduced the controversial parental rights and education bill earlier this year. The bill quickly passed the state legislature and was signed into law by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in March.
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