TALLAHASSEE, FL – Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. (Florida-02) released the following statement regarding the House’s passage of a bill designating a United States Courthouse and Federal Building as the “Joseph Woodrow Hatchett United States Courthouse and Federal Building.”

“Today, I voted in favor of renaming the Tallahassee federal courthouse in honor of Judge Joseph Woodrow Hatchett and his many accomplishments. When we initially voted on this dedication, I felt the process with this bill was rushed and deserved more study. After reviewing the information for this designation, I wish we could have had an honest discussion and celebrated Judge Hatchett’s many achievements. He is a great Floridian and American and should be recognized as such. I take issue with his decision regarding student-approved prayers at high school graduations; however, that one decision must not overshadow all his achievements. Now that I’ve had time to learn more about Judge Hatchett, I am proud to support the renaming of this courthouse.”

Background Information:

The vote that took place in March, was held as a suspension vote in the U.S. House of Representatives. Suspension votes must be passed with a two-thirds majority vote, and there is no opportunity for public debate.

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