2025 Legislative Session

Updated 6/12/2025

Education & Parental Rights

HB123. Charter school conversion

Summary: Revises provisions relating to conversion schools; prohibits school districts from charging specified fees for conversion school; requires specified property to remain at conversion school.
Status: Passed Education Administration Subcommittee 13-5; Failed Education & Employment Committee 11-4 (7 abs); 5/3 “Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration”
No votes:
- Rep Wallace Aristide (D, D107, Miami-Dade County)
- Rep Jervonte “Tae” Edmonds (D, D88, Palm Beach County)
- Rep Jennifer “Rita” Harris (D, D44, Orange County)
- Rep Yvonne Hinson (D, D21, Alachua & Marion Counties)

Absent:

Rep Kimberly Daniels (D, D14, Duval County)
- Rep Lisa Dunkley (D, D97, Broward County)
- Rep Berny Jacques (R, D59, Pinellas County)
- Rep Kiyan Michael (R, D; D16, Duval County)
- Rep Judson Sapp (R, D20, Clay, Marion, St. Johns Counties)
- Rep Paula Stark (R, D47, Orange & Osceola Counties)
- Rep Susan Valdes (R, D64, Hillsborough County)
Sponsor: Rep Alex Andrade (R, D2; Escambia & Santa Rosa Counties)
Details: Amends 1002.33 (Charter schools)
- Application for conversion must be made by parents with kids enrolled at an existing public school (can no longer be done by school board, principal or teachers)
- Requires at least 50% of parents to approve (used to be 50% of teachers and 50% of parents)
- Municipality can apply with school in jurisdiction earned below “A” for 5 consecutive years; must be “job engine charter school”
- Property normally inventories to the school may not be removed; can’t charge rental or leasing fees for that equipment

HB1255. Education – PASSED

Summary: Provisions for critical teacher shortage areas, removes Florida School for Competitive Academics, other education issues
Status: Awaiting Governor’s signature; passed House 100-0 (19 abs); passed Senate 30-0 (5 nv, 3 abs)
Sponsor: Rep Dana Trabulsy (R, D84, St. Lucie County), Rep Chase Tramont (R, D30, Brevard & Volusia Counties), + 5 cosponsors
Details… 83-page monstrosity with many disparate provisions
- Amends 11.45 (Definitions; duties; authorities; reports; rules) to remove Florida School for Competitive Academics from annual financial and triennial operational audits
- Amends 110.211 (Recruitment) to add “Recruiting may include the of an apprenticeship program… Open competition is not required for a position that will be filled by a person who has successfully completed an apprenticeship program with the hiring agency.”
- Amends 125.901 (Children’s services; independent special district; council; powers, duties, and functions; public records exemption) to be 3-year appointments (up from 2)
- Amends 446.032 (General duties of the department for apprenticeship training), moves reporting date from Sept 1 to Nov 30
- Amends 447.203 (Definitions) to remove the Board of Trustees of the Florida School for Competitive Academics as a public employer
- Amends 1000.04 (Components for the delivery of public education within the Florida Early Learning-20 education system) to remove the Florida School for Competitive Academics as a component of the public education system
- Amends 1000.21 (Systemwide definitions) to rename Hillsborough Community College to Hillsborough College
- Amends 1000.40 (Future repeal of the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children) to push repeal date from July 1, 2025 to July 1, 2028
- Amends 1001.03 (Specific powers of State Board of Education) to change “CRITICAL TEACHER SHORTAGE AREAS” to “HIGH-DEMAND TEACHER NEEDS AREAS”; removes the Florida School for Competitive Academics from Office of Inspector General responsibilities
- Amends 1001.452 (District and school advisory councils) to remove requirement for “maximized their efforts to include on their advisory councils minority persons and persons of lower socioeconomic status.”
- Amends 1001.7065 (Preeminent state research universities program) to add the Classic Learning Test requirement (83 of 120) to GPA, SAT, and ACT requirements for academic and research excellence standards
- Amends 1002.20 (K-12 student and parent rights) to replace “Nalexone” with “an FDA-approved emergency opioid antagonist”; adds to requirement for parental consent for a school to administer corporal punishment definition of corporal punishment
- Amends 1002.33 (Charter schools) to add exemption to 1002.20 provision on corporal punishment; prevents local governing authority from imposing or enforcing any local building requirements that are not uniformly imposed upon publish schools in the jurisdiction (includes limits on number of students, number of teachers, number of classrooms, hours of operation, outdoor recreation area; any charter school that meets requirements of state law shall be administratively approved by the local governing authority; can’t require special exemption or conditional use approval for charter schools under land development code
- 1002.351 (The Florida School for Competitive Academics) is repealed
- Amends 1002.394 (The Family Empowerment Scholarship Program) to remove the Florida School for Competitive Academics
- Amends 1002.42 (Private schools) to say private school in county with four incorporated municipalities may construct new facilities (temporary or permanent) on property purchased from or owned or leased by a library, community service organization, museum, performing arts venue, theater, cinema, or church that is/way actively used within 5 years; can also use land from Florida College System institution or state university or any land used for a school or child care facility without rezoning or special exception or land use change
- Administrative changes to 1002.421 (State school choice scholarship program accountability and oversight) to change referenced statute numbers

Commentary: Why is a super-majority Republican legislature incapable for doing short, single issue bills?

SB1504. Religious Liberty Awareness and Activation Act

Summary: Prohibits school district from discriminating against students, parents, or school personnel on the basis of religious viewpoints or religious expression
Status: Referred to Education Pre-K-12, Judiciary, & Rules… no votes in any committee; 5/3 “Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration”
Sponsor: Sen Ana Rodriguez (R, D40, Monroe & Miami-Dade Counties)
Details:
- School district may not discriminate against a student, parent, or school personnel on the basis of a religious viewpoint or religious expression (treated same as secular expression)
- Student may express his or her religious beliefs in coursework, artwork, and other written and oral assignments; may wear clothing, accessories, and jewelry that display a religious message or symbol; may pray or engage in religious activities or religious expression before, during, and after the school day (same as secular activities)
- School district may not prevent school personnel from participating in religious activities on school grounds that are initiated by students; comply with Title VII of Civil Rights Act of 1964 (no discrimination on access to facilities based on religion)
Amends 1003.44 (Patriotic programs; rules); requires national anthem to be played at beginning of each school day after completion of a moment of silence
- Each school district shall conduct a public awareness campaign about the display of the state motto, “In God We Trust”

HB1539/SB1692. Materials Harmful to Minors

Summary: Defines “harmful to minors”; revises list of materials used in classroom which are subject to objection process by parents or residents.
Status: HB1539 passed house 81-29 (9 nv) on 4/24, then 5/3 “Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration;” SB1692 passed Senate Criminal Justice (6-3) on 3/18, scheduled for Education Pre-K-12 which did nothing with it, Chair is Sen Corey Simon (R, D3, Dixie, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Hamilton + 8 other counties)
Sponsor: Rep Doug Bankson (R, D39, Orange & Seminole Counties; 14 cosponsors); SB1692 by Sen Stan McClain (R, D9, Alachua, Levy & Marion Counties)
Details (HB1539); amends 1006.28 (Duties of district school board, district school superintendent; and school principal regarding K-12 instructional materials)
- “Harmful to minors” means any reproduction, imitation, characterization, description, exhibition, presentation, or representation, of whatever kind or form, depicting nudity, sexual conduct, or sexual excitement when it:
  a. Predominantly appeals to prurient, shameful, or morbid interest; and
  b. Is patently offensive to prevailing standards in the adult community as a whole with respect to what is suitable material or conduct for minors.
- The school district may not consider potential literary, artistic, political, or scientific value as a basis for retaining the material if it contains material harmful to minors.
- State Board of Education monitor compliance; 30-days to fix problem or may withhold funds

Commentary: Pathetic that legislators can’t be bothered to remove these grooming porn books from school libraries… makes you question their intentions and motivations. Despite that, this bill was pretty weak on the penalties for noncompliance so it probably wouldn’t have made much of a difference. It seems the only place less safe than a public school library is letting your kids roam the legislative halls in Tallahassee.

SB7030. Educational Scholarship Programs – PASSED

Summary: creates Family Empowerment Scholarship Program; renames the Hope Scholarship Program to the Hope Program
Status: Awaiting Governor’s signature; passed House 80-27 (12 nv); passed Senate 35-2 (1 abs)
Sponsor: Senate Appropriations Committee on Pre-K – 12 Education Committee
Details
- Creates 1011.687 (Educational scholarship programs; operating categorical fund); creates fund for implementing the Family Empowerment Scholarship Program (1002.394); amount to be set by General Appropriations Act; funds awarded to “full-time equivalent scholarship students” (defined); award amount is based on student’s county of residence
- Creates 1011.689 (Educational enrollment stabilization program); provide supplemental state funds as needed to address changes in full-time equivalent student enrollment throughout the school year in both the Florida Finance Education Program and the educational scholarship programs; allows for supplemental payment to school districts that have decline in unweighted full-time equivalent students; Legislature to provide enough funds to keep minimum balance of $250M for the educational stabilization program
- Amends 1011.65 (Florida Education Finance Program Appropriation Allocation Conference) to require verification of full-time equivalent student membership data to avoid duplication
- Amends 1002.40 (The Hope Scholarship Program) to rename the Hope Scholarship Program to the Hope Program
- 1002.411 (New Worlds Scholarship Accounts) is repealed
- Amends 1002.421 (State school choice scholarship program accountability and oversight) to create definitions for “approved provider,” “choice navigator,” “Eligible nonprofit scholarship-funding organization” (state universities and colleges) and more;
  - Requirements for scholarship application process (must clearly outline eligibility requirements and authorized uses of funds; single application for all scholarship programs offered by an organization; 2 application approval windows each year (Fall NLT May 31, Spring NLT Nov 1)
  - Establishes award priorities (household income less than 185% federal poverty level or foster care; household income between 185% and 400% federal poverty level; previous award winner
  - Parents have 30 days to accept (15 days for 2025-26 school year)
  - Parent may not apply for multiple scholarships for an individual student at the same time
  - Application windows don’t apply to student in foster care or out-of-home care dependent child of US Armed Forces (1002.40)
  - Can’t restrict or reserve scholarships for a particular school or child of an owner or operator of a school
  - Verification of eligibility must be done each year (no multi-year scholarships); must have more than one form of proof of residency or proof that student is dependent of active duty member of US Armed Forces, student’s birth certificate, other forms dependent on circumstances
  - Department must cross-check list of verified eligible students with most recent public school enrollment lists to avoid duplication
  - Organization must verify student’s continued eligibility before each scholarship payment
  - Scholarship amount determined yearly in the General Appropriations Act based on per student funding at the state level, student’s current grade level and county of residence
  - Student must take nationally norm-referenced tests identified by the department or statewide assessment
  - “The inclusion of eligible private schools within options available to Florida public school students does not expand the regulatory authority of the state, its officers, or any school district to impose any additional regulation of private schools beyond that reasonably necessary to enforce requirements expressly set forth in this section”
  - Section on School District obligations (providing training on test security, distributing test materials, assistance with monitoring, etc.)

Commentary: Good intent, but a 4,060-line bill to describe a scholarship program seems excessive. It’s bound to have problems and will be difficult to change in statute. It would’ve been better to provide a general outline of the scholarship program and allow the Department of Education to fill in the details based on existing scholarship standards.

Healthcare & Medical Freedom

HB595/SB560. Chemical Additives in Food Products

Summary: Prohibits food establishments from manufacturing, selling, or distributing food that contains specified chemical additives.
Status: no recorded votes in the house; SB560 passed Senate Agriculture 5-1, died in Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment and General Government, AEG (no votes – chair Sen Jason Brodeur (R, D10, Seminole & Orange Counties); 5/3 “Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration”
Sponsor: Rep Lindsay Cross (D, D60, Pinellas County) & Rep Meg Weinberger (R, D94, Palm Beach County); SB560 by Sen Jonathan Martin (R, D33, Lee County)
Details: Creates 500.454 (Prohibited chemical additives; penalties)
- Food establishments may not manufacture, sell, distribute food that contains
  - Brominated vegetable oil
  - Potassium bromate
  - Propylparaben
  - Red dye 3
  - Blue dye 1
  - Yellow dye 5
  - Benzidine
  - Butylated hydroxyanisole
  - Butylated hydroxytoluene
- Violation is administrative fine Class II (Class III for subsequent violations)

Commentary: Why can’t we get short, single-issue bills like this. It’s only 32 lines long, simple and straight forward. I guess it’s not popular because it can’t be used to burry favors for special interest groups or used to attack people for voting for or against the bill and implying support (or not) for a particular provision in a complex bill. Simplicity is the enemy of the corrupt politicians trying to abuse power and deceive the voters they know barely pay attention.

SB700. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (Fluoride bill) – PASSED

Summary: (claim) Banning fluoride in drinking water… really the ag lobby dream bill
Status: Signed by Governor on 5/15/2025; passed House 88-27 (4 nv); passed Senate 27-9 (1 nv, 1 abs)
Sponsor: Sen Keith Truenow (R, D13, Lake & Orange Counties)
Details… 63-page monstrosity with many disparate provisions… the summary alone is 10 pages (520 lines); some highlights:
- Adds captains & majors in Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement to list of positions exempt from the Career Service System
- Prohibiting governmental entities from adopting or enforcing any legislation that inhibits the construction of housing for legally verified agricultural workers on agricultural land
- Allows Depart of Agriculture to surplus lands determined suitable for agricultural production… retroactive to Jan 1, 2009 (not a typo)
- Can’t operate a drone on or near agricultural lands or private & state hunting lands (2nd degree misdemeanor), except for owner or person acting with written consent of owner
- Local governments can’t regulate electric vehicle charging stations; Dept of Ag will set standards; local gov’t “shall issue” permits; Dept of Ag will inspect and enforce rules for charging stations
- Minor updates to mosquito control statutes (388-series)
- Updates 403.852 (Definitions)
  - “Water quality additive” means any chemical, additive, or substance that is used in a public water system for the purpose of:
    (a) Meeting or surpassing primary or secondary drinking water standards;
    (b) Preventing, reducing, or removing contaminants; or
    (c) Improving water quality.
  - Prohibits use of any additive in a public water system which does not meet the definition of a water quality additive
- Allows remote, third-party vendor to certify pest control operators, commercial landscape maintenance, commercial wildlife management
- Creates definitions for “foreign country of concern” and “foreign source of concern” to be used in 496-series statutes (solicitation of funds)
- Allows single permit renewal for multiple food establishments owned by the same entity
- Creates 500.93 (Mislabeling of plant-based products as milk, meat, or poultry). Plant-based products can’t be called milk, meat, poultry or egg
- Creates 525.19 (Petroleum registration). Dept of Ag maintains list of petroleum owners or operators to track status of infrastructure, inventory and delivery information during state of emergency
- Creates Florida Retail Fuel Transfer Switch Modernization Grant Program ($5-10K grants to allow alternative generated power sources to run fuel pumps, payment systems, etc.
- Creates Florida Aquaculture Foundation (directly-support organization within Dept of Ag)
- Creates grant program for timber landowners whose timber was damaged as a result of a declared emergency
- Creates The Cattle Enhancement Board, Inc (beef marketing program)
- Changes Viticulture Advisory Council to the Florida Wine Advisory Council; requires wineries to recertify annually
- Creates 687.16 (Florida Farmer Financial Protection Act). Prohibits financial institutions from using ESG considerations to discriminate against agriculture producers
- Creates 812.136 (Mail theft).

Commentary: This reads like a bill written by special interest lobbyists. It doesn’t explicitly ban fluoridation of water, but that’s how it was sold. Interesting that Dept of Ag can enforce FDA standards for milk, meat, and poultry and the bill creates state penalties for mail theft (a federal crime), but people think state and local law enforcement can’t defend the border or deport illegals

HB1299/SB1270. Department of Health – PASSED

Summary: repeal date and definition of mRNA; require medical marijuana treatment centers notify Dept of Health of actual or attempted theft; revises eligibility criteria for licensure
Status: Signed by Governor on 6/2; passed House 113-0 (6 nv); passed senate 37-0 (1 abs)
Sponsor: Rep Taylor Yarkosky (R, D25, Lake County); SB1270 by Sen Jay Collins (R, D14, Hillsborough County)
Details:
- Amends 381.00316 (Discrimination by governmental and business entities based on health care choices; prohibition) and381.00319 (Prohibition on mask mandates and vaccination and testing mandates for educational institutions) to moves repeal date of mRNA definition to June 1, 2027 (from 2025)
- Amends 381.986 (Medical use of marijuana) with technical issues (shall to must, the to this)
  - Removes board members of marijuana treatment centers from required background screenings (owners, managers & employees still need one)
  - Adds requirement to notify Dept of Health of actual or attempted theft, diversion, or loss of marijuana (previous requirement was only local law enforcement)
- Amends 381.988 (Medical marijuana testing laboratories; marijuana tests conducted by a certified laboratory) to add definitions of owner, manager and employee used in 381.986
  - Allows permit approvals for reported adverse action that is not a violation of any law or state rule (banking issues)
- Amends 458.313 (Licensure by endorsement; requirements; fees) to allow licensure of those who satisfy 456.0145 (Mobile Opportunity by Interstate Licensure Endorsement (MOBILE) Act) except the 3 or 4 year practice if the applicant has completed a board-approved postgraduate training program within 2 years or board-approved clinical competency examination within 1 year
- Amends 458.3145 (Medical faculty certificate) to add The Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, and Loma Linda University School of Medicine
- Amends 458.315 (Temporary certificate for practice in areas of critical need) and 459.0076 (Temporary certificate for practice in areas of critical need)… both seem cosmetic, deleting “physician assistant” when talking about physicians, but then adding a sentence with the same language for physician assistants
- Updates several statutes to rename American Association of Physician Specialists to American Board of Physician Specialties

Commentary: Hard to see a need to update the medical marijuana treatment statutes, especially to loosen them. I guess it’s the board members that make the campaign contributions so they’re off the hook for background screenings.

SB1372. Declarations of a Public Health Emergency

Summary: Vaccines not included as treatment during public health emergencies
Status: Referred to Health Policy (Chair is Sen Colleen Burton (R, D12, Polk County), Judiciary and Rules Committees; no votes; 5/3 “Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration”
Sponsor: Sen Clay Yarborough (R, D15, Orange County)
Details: Amends 381.00315 (Public health advisories; public health emergencies; isolation and quarantines) to say treat, treated, or treatment do not include the administration of vaccinations
- Public health emergency expires after 60 days; Governor can extend for 30 days; subsequent renewals (30-days at a time) require 2/3 majority vote in each Legislative chamber
- Individual can refuse testing or treatment for reasons of health, religion, or conscience (may be subject to isolation or quarantine)

Commentary: Like HB595/SB560, this bill is too short to bury pork and favors which is why it was probably ignored. A bill like this should have passed in 2021. The fact that it hasn’t shows how little concern our legislators have for the government abuses we witnessed during the COVID lockdowns. They like to talk about it at election time, but forget all about it once in office.

HB1399. Emergency Powers During a Declared Public Health Emergency

Summary: Passed House Health Professions & Programs Subcommittee 16-0; Passed House State Affairs Committee 17-4 (5 abs); died in Health & Human Services Committee with no vote (Chair Rep Josie Tomkow (R, D51, Polk County)
Status: 5/3 “Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration”
Sponsor: Rep Monique Miller (R, D33, Brevard County)
Details: Amends 381.00315 (Public health advisories; public health emergencies; isolation and quarantines) to limit health emergency declaration to 30-days (from 60); Governor can extend for 30-days at a time (no limit); Legislature can end emergency declaration with concurrent resolution; once expired or terminated the State Health Officer cannot declare a substantially similar emergency

Commentary: Nice that it was only 35 lines, but SB1372 was better.

Culture

HB75/SB100. Display of Flags by Governmental Entities

Summary: Ban on political flags on government property; authorizing US Armed Forces or National Guard to use reasonable force to prevent desecration, destruction, or removal of US flag
Status: HB75 killed in Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee with no votes; Rep Alex Rizo (R, D112, Miami-Dade County); SB100 passed Senate Governmental Oversight and Accountability 5-2 (1 abs); passed Senage Community Affairs 5-3; killed in Rules Committee with no vote; Chair Sen Kathleen Passidomo (R, D28, Collier, Hendry & Lee Counties)
Sponsor: Rep David Borrero (R, D111, Miami-Dade County) and Rep Jeff Holcomb (R, D59, Hernando and Pasco Counties); Sen Randy Fine (R, D19, Brevard County)
Details: Creates 256.045 (Display of flags; governmental agencies, local governments, or other units of local government)
- Government entities may not erect or display a flag that represents a political viewpoint (politically partisan, racial, sexual orientation, gender)
- If displaying US flag, it must be in prominent position superior to any other flag displayed
- Active or retired member of US Armed Forces or National Guard may at any time use reasonable force to prevent the desecration, destruction, or removal of the US flag except when directly ordered not to by law enforcement

Commentary: A 3-page bill than weak Republicans couldn’t allow to come to a vote, but they’ll all be super-patriotic on July 4th and during their next campaign. There are no penalties for violations. Criminal penalties are too strong, but removal from office and maybe even a ban from ever running for office again might be appropriate. The last provision is silly. If you’re not going to provide criminal and civil liability protection and allow local law enforcement to stop them, why say they can use any reasonable force? It’s a throw away provision to sound tough that accomplishes nothing.

HB731/SB1710. Prohibitions and Limitations on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Requirements for Medical Institutions of Higher Education

Summary: Requires medical institutions of higher education to have standardized admissions test focused on specified knowledge & skills.
Status: passed House Government Operations Subcommittee 14-4; referred to Education & Employment Committee, Chair Rep Jennifer Canady (R, D50, Polk County); passed Governmental Oversight and Accountabiliyt 6-2; died in Education Postsecondary, Chair Sen Alexis Calatayud (R, D38, Miami-Dade County); 5/3 “Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration”
Sponsor: Rep Lauren Melo (R, D82, Collier County); Sen Nick DiCeglie (R, D18, Pinellas County)
Details: Creates 1004.0982 (Standardized admissions tests for medical institutions of higher education)
- “must require a standardized admissions test focused on knowledge of and critical thinking skills for science and medical training for admission to the institution.”

Commentary: HB731 was not nearly explicit enough on banning DEI considerations in admissions (or other things like residency).

HB1139. Termination of Pregnancies

Summary: Prohibits abortion if fetus is sustainable outside the womb through standard medical measures but ends 6-week abortion ban
Status: Referred to 3 committees, but received no votes; 5/3 “Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration”
Sponsor: Rep Fentrice Driskell (D, D67, Hillsborough County) and Rep Jennifer “Rita” Harris (D, D44, Orange County)
Details: Amends 390.0111 (Termination of pregnancies) to change existing 6-week abortion to when “fetus is sustainable outside the womb through standard medical measures” as determined by the physician
- Removes third trimester ban on fatal fetal abnormality exemption
- Removes rape, incest, human trafficking exemption for 6-week ban (was raised to 15-weeks)

Commentary: Seems amazing that Democrats would write what looks like an anti-abortion bill (no abortion if fetus is viable outside the womb). Of course, anyone who pays attention knows it’s not an honest representation of what the bill is because the subject itself is moot under existing law. In stereotypically slimy and dishonest ways, bill summary does not mention it removes the existing 6-week abortion ban. If you disagree with the 6-week ban, at least be honest about it and write a bill that explicitly says in the title and summary that it’s changing the existing 6-week ban to x-weeks. If you can’t make the case for your position, maybe your position isn’t a good one. At least it was a nice, short (3-page), single-issue bill.

HB1193. Prohibits of guaranteed income programs

Summary: Prohibits local government from adopting or enforcing certain regulations relating to guaranteed income programs
Status: Passed House Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee 12-4 (2 abs); referred to State Affairs Committee (no votes); 5/3 “Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration”
Sponsor: Rep David Borrero (R, D111, Miami-Dade County)
Details: Creates 414.036 (Guaranteed income programs prohibited).
- Defines “guaranteed income program” where “a person is issued an unconditional cash payment on a regular basis which can be used for any purpose by the recipient” with no job seeking, training, or work requirements
- Prohibits local government from adopting or enforcing any ordinance, resolution, order, or rule that makes payments to guaranteed income program
- Attorney General institute civil action and cease and desist order; if locals fail to comply AG files for injunctive relief

Commentary: What a worthless bill that reinforces talking points about heavy-handed state government trampling local rule. It’s not even well written because it has no teeth (civil action from AG to stop it). The consequences should either be removal of the officials that implement the program and/or end to all state funding for the local government.

HB1225. Employment

Summary: Prohibits local minimum wage; can’t use wage or employment benefits as consideration for contract awards
Status: Passed house 78-30 (11 nv); killed in Senate Rules committee with no votes (Chair, Sen Kathleen Passidomo (R, D28, Collier, Hendry & Lee Counties)
Sponsor: Rep Monique Miller (R, D33, Brevard County)
Details: Repeals sections 2 and 3 of chapter 2024-80
- Amends 218.077 (Wage and employment benefits requirements by political subdivisions; restrictions)
  - Local government can’t seek to control or affect wages or employment benefits of venders, contractors, service providers, etc. doing business with local government
  - Local government can’t use wages or employment benefits as evaluation factors for award preferences
- Amends 450.081 (Hours of work in certain occupations)
  - Changes 16-17 work hours from 6:30am-11pm to 6:30am-10pm
  - Removes 8-hour daily cap and 30-hour weekly cap
  - Removes employment ban during school hours for those not enrolled in a career education program
  - Removes 30-min meal break for work window over 4 hours
  - Adds 14 & 15 years olds (to 16 & 17) as exempt from this labor law if they have HS or equivalent diploma

Commentary: Why conflate child labor with local government meddling with private wages and benefits? It would be nice to see a legislative intent for the changes in child labor laws. Lowing cap from 11pm to 10pm seems restrictive, but then eliminating daily and weekly caps seems like they want child-labor sweat shops. I think the objective is to allow 16-17 year olds to work during school hours while enrolled in Florida Virtual School, but that’s not explicitly stated in the bill.

HB1495/SB440. Gender Identity Employment Practices (“Freedom of Conscience in the Workplace Act”)

Summary: Restrict pronouns in the workplace
Status: HB1495 referred to three committees; no votes; 5/3 “Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration”; SB440 passed Senate Governmental Oversight and Accountability 5-2; Killed in Judiciary Committee without a vote, Chair Sen Clay Yarborough (R, D15, Orange County)
Sponsor: Rep Rachel Plakon (R, D36, Seminole County), Sen Stan McClain (R, D9, Levy, Marion & Alachua Counties)
Details: Creates 110.1051 (Personal pronouns)
- Defines “adverse personnel action” as discharge, suspension, transfer, demotion, lack of promotion, withholding bonus, reduction in salary or benefits
- Defines “gender identity” as “a fully internal and subjective sense of self, disconnected from biological reality and sex… and cannot be recognized as a replacement for sex”
- Defines “gender ideology” as “false belief that replaces the biological category of sex with an ever-shifting concept of self-assessed gender identity…”
- Defines “sex” as either male or female based on specific reproductive role indicated by chromosomes; “policy of this state that a person’s sex is an immutable biological trait”
- Employee or contractor can’t be required to refer to another person using preferred pronouns that don’t correspond to that person’s sex
- Job application or employment form can only as for sex (male or female and not provide other options)
- Employee or contractor aggrieved by violation has administrative and civil remedies provided by 760.11 (Administrative and civil remedies; construction); attorney fees and costs awarded to the prevailing party
Amends 760.10 (Unlawful employment practices) employers who receive funding from state can’t require any training, instruction or other activity on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression

Commentary: Nice intent and almost seems well written, but the remedies/penalties are a joke. Also, it seems like the changes to 760.10 would actually prohibit the employer from providing training on the Freedom of Conscience in the Workplace Act.

HB1571/SB420. Official Actions of Local Governments with Respect to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Summary: Prohibits counties & municipalities from taking official action on DEI
Status: HB1571 referred 4 committes (no votes); killed in Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee, chair Rep Alex Rizo (R, D112, Miami-Dade County); 5/3 “Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration”
Sponsor: Rep Dean Black (R, D15, Duval County); Sen Clay Yarborough (R, D15, Orange County)
Details: Creates 125.595 (Prohibition of official actions of counties relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion; penalty; remedy)
- No official action (ordinances, resolutions, rules, regulations, programs, policies) on DEI
- Commissioner who violates is guilty of misfeasance or malfeasance in office
- Action can be brought in court for injunctive relief, damages and costs (no award of attorney fees to county as prevailing party)
- Exceptoin for required complicance with general or federal laws or regulations
- Defines DEI: “classifies an individual on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, gender identity, or sexual orientation and promotes deferential or preferential treatment of individuals on the basis of such classification.”
Creates 166.04971 (Prohibition of official actions of municipalities relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion; penalty; remedy.—)… same as 125.595 for city commissions

Crime

HB777. Offenses Involving Children – PASSED

Summary: Ignorance of victim’s age, misrepresentation of victim’s age, & belief concerning victim’s age are not defenses when victim’s age is an element of offense
Status: Signed by Governor on 6/10; passed House 111-9 (8 nv); passed Senate 37-0 (1 abs)
Sponsor: Rep Rachel Plakon (R, D36, Seminole County)
Details:
- Creates 787.001 (Victim’s age; ignorance and misrepresentation not defenses). Ignorance of victim’s age is not a defense. Misrepresentation of victim’s age by anyone or belief that victim is over specified age is not a defense. Doesn’t apply to 787.30 (Employing persons under the age of 21 years in adult entertainment establishments prohibited)
- Amends 787.025 (Luring or enticing a child). Adds out of (in addition to into) a structure; raises penalty from third degree misdemeanor to third degree felony (repeat offenders get second degree felony)

Commentary: Interesting exemption for adult entertainment establishments. I guess pedos are OK as long as they’re doing it publically and paying taxes. Even something as simple as protecting kids takes a backseat to connected political donors… or maybe it’s just the legislators that want kids under 21 at adult establishments. We definitely need to know who put that line in the bill so that person can be investigated.

HB807. Motor Vehicle Repair Work (“Lilly Glaubach Act”)

Summary: Vehicle repair shops must get written crash reports from customer and provide info to law enforcement; law enforcement provide equipment to shops
Status: referred to Industries & Professional Activates Subcommittee, Criminal Justice Subcommittee, and Commerce Committee; no votes; 5/3 “Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration”
Sponsor: Rep Jessica Baker (R, D17, Duval County)
Details: Amends 559.905 (Written motor vehicle repair estimate and disclosure statement required)
- If estimate is $5,000 or more, shop must request customer provide written crash report (316.066) before providing an estimate
- If no crash report, shop prepares transaction form (8.5×11) recording name & address of shop, VIN, year, license tag, make, model, color of vehicle, and name, phone, physical description, and address of owner or person in possession of vehicle (keep form on premises for 1 year; submit forms to “appropriate” law enforcement agency each day)
- Law enforcement may supply software or hardware for shop to supply forms electronically
- Violation is second degree misdemeanor; Dept of Ag and Consumer Services may revoke shop’s registration
Administrative changes to 559.909 and 559.907 to reflect changes

HB955. Employment Eligibility

Summary: Request all employers (regardless of size) to use E-Verify
Status: Passed House 88-25 (6 nv); killed in Senate Rules Committee with not vote, Chair Sen Kathleen Passidomo (R, D28, Collier, Hendry & Lee Counties)
Sponsor: Rep Berny Jacques (R, D59, Pinellas County) and Rep Kiyan Michael (R, D; D16, Duval County)
Details: Amends 448.095 (Employment eligibility), changes requirement date to July 1, 2025 (from 2023) and removes 25 or more employees so that all employers are required to use E-Verify

Commentary: Simple 2 page bill that corrupt Senate President can’t allow to get votes, not just to kill the bill, but to keep the corporate shills in the senate from having to vote and betray their lobbyist puppet masters

HB1161. (Brooke’s Law) Removal of Altered Sexual Depictions Posted without Consent – PASSED

Summary: requires covered platforms to establish process for removal of altered sexual depictions posted without consent of identifiable person
Status: Signed by Governor on 6/10; passed Senate 38-0; passed House 116-0 (3 abs)
Sponsor: Rep Wyman Duggan (R, D12, Duval County)
Details: Amends 836.13 (Promotion of an altered sexual depiction; prohibited acts; penalties; applicability)
- Defines “covered platform (website, online service, online application, or mobile application that provides user-generated content)
- Must establish process for identifiable person to notify of altered sexual depiction published without consent (by Dec 31, 2025)
- Once requested, platform has 48 hours to remove depiction and known copies; not held liable if removed; failure is unfair or deceptive act under 501 Part II
- Doesn’t apply to email provider

HB1279/SB1498. Services to Noncitizens

Summary: no down payment assistance to noncitizens; employer penalties for hiring illegals, ban on wire transfers
Status: HB1279 killed in Commerce Committee with no votes, Chair Rep James Buchanan (R, D74, Sarasota County); SB1498 killed in Commerce and Tourism Committee with no votes, Chair Sen Tom Leek (R, D7, Flagler, Putnam, St Johns & Volusia Counties)
Sponsor: Rep Kiyan Michael (R, D; D16, Duval County); Sen Blaise Ingoglia (R, D11, Citrus, Hernando, Sumter & Pasco Counties)
Details: Amends 125.0167 (Discretionary surtax on documents; adoption; application of revenue) to say County my require proof that borrower is lawfully present in the United States to receive any financial assistance
- Creates 420.0007 (Down payment assistance for noncitizens prohibited)
  - State and local governments and private corporations may not provide any form of down payment assistance to a person who is not lawfully present in the United States
  - Unlawful residents who take assistance must repay immediately and government entity or private corporation will initiate foreclosure proceedings
  - Unlawful resident caught in violation will be ineligible for future down payment assistance even if they become legal residents
- Amends 420.5088 (Florida Homeownership Assistance Program) and 420.5096 (Florida Hometown Hero Program) to require beneficiaries to be lawfully present in the US
- Amends 448.09 (Unauthorized aliens; employment prohibited)
  - Employer who knowingly violates will have license suspended for 1 year and fine up to $10,000; 2nd offense is 5 years and up to $100,000; 3rd offense license permanently revoked and fine up to $250,000
  - If unauthorized alien employee’s actions result in injuries to another person, employer license suspended 5 years and fine up to $100,000; if caused death, license permanently revoked and fine up to $500,000; person injured or next of kin of person killed has cause of action for damages against employer
  - Removes number of unauthorized aliens
- Amends448.095 (Employment eligibility), changes requirement date to July 1, 2025 (from 2023) and removes 25 or more employees so that all employers are required to use E-Verify
- Amends 560.208 (Conduct of business)
  - May not initiate a foreign remittance transfer for unauthorized alien
  - Penalty is 25% of US dollar amount transferred
- Amends 560.211 (Required records)
  - Must save documentation used to verify sender of foreign remittance transfer is not an unauthorized alien
- Creates 560.2115 (Required records audit)
  - Licensee must provide records of documentation used to verify sender of a foreign remittance transfer
  - Person who knowingly files false of frivolous complaint commits second degree misdemeanor
  - Random quarterly audits of licensees to ensure compliance with 560.208
  - Failure to comply is grounds to suspend business license

Commentary: Poorly written. Trying to do too many things in one bill. Change to 125.0167 should say county must require proof of legal residence, not just may require proof. 420.0007 provision is good: once caught, banned forever. Change to 448.09 should include requirement that employer is referred to federal authorities for prosecution under federal law (8 USC 1324 and 1327). Penalty for 560.208 is not severe enough. It’s basically just a 25% tax. There should be criminal liability. It’s ridiculous that there is a criminal charge for complaining that a business is failing to comply, but not for the business that fails to comply.

HB1351. Registration of Sexual Predators and Sexual Offenders – PASSED

Summary: Revises reporting requirements for sexual predators
Status: Signed by Governor on 6/10; passed Senate 37-0 (1 abs); passed House 114-0
Sponsor: Rep Jessica Baker (R, D17, Duval County)
Details: Amends 775.21 (The Florida Sexual Predators Act) to include transient residence changes for periods of 3 or more days, and creation of self-employed business
- Required to report vehicle information changes to sheriff’s office within 48 hours
- Required to report in-state travel residence within 48 hours via department’s online system or in-person at the sheriff’s office
- Department of Corrections must verifying addresses of sexual predators at least four times per calendar year (once per year for sexual offenders)
- Required to report specifics on employment (occupation, business name, employment address and telephone number)

HB1455. Sexual Offenses by Persons Previously Convicted of Sexual Offenses – PASSED

Summary: Mandatory minimum sentences for specified sexual offenses when committed by persons who have previously committed specified sexual offenses
Status: Signed by Governor on 6/10; passed Senate 37-0 (1 nv); passed House 112-0 (7 nv)
Sponsor: Rep Jessica Baker (R, D17, Duval County)
Details: Creates 794.0116 (Sexual offenses by persons previously convicted of sexual offenses). Mandatory minimum sentences for repeat officers:
- 800.04(5) lewd or lascivious molestation, 10 years
- 825.1025(3) lewd or lascivious molestation of an elderly person or disabled person, 10 years
- 827.071(2) use of a child in a sexual performance, 20 years
- 827.071(3) promoting a sexual performance by a child, 20 years
- 827.071(4) possess with the intent to promote child pornography, 15 years
- 827.071(5)(a) knowingly possess child pornography, 10 years
- 847.0135 use of computer to seduce, solicit, lure, entice child, 10 years
- 847.0137 use computer to transmit child pornography, 10 years
- 847.0145 sell or buy minors, 20 years
- “not eligible for statutory gain-time under s. 944.275 or any form of discretionary early release, other than pardon or executive clemency, or conditional medical release”

Commentary: We need something like this for ALL crimes, not just sexual offenses. Our 10-20-Life bill is worthless. Our jails are a revolving door for mentally disturbed and/or addicted criminals who make life miserable for their victims and the officers who have to deal with them.

HB1804. Capital Human Trafficking of Vulnerable Persons for Sexual Exploitation

Summary: Makes human trafficking of child under 12 or mentally incapacitated person a capital offense (death or life sentence)
Status: Pending Governor’s signature; passed House 95-17 (7 nv); passed Senate 27-11
Sponsor: Sen Jonathan Martin (R, D33, Lee County)
Details:
- Amends 787.06 (Human trafficking)
  - 18+ knowingly initiates, organizes, plans, finances, directs, manages, or supervises trafficking of child under 12 or person mentally defective or incapacitated is capital human trafficking (capital felony – sentence of death or life imprisonment)
  - Each instance is separate crime and separate punishment authorized
- Creates 921.1427 (Sentence of death or life imprisonment for capital human trafficking of vulnerable persons for sexual exploitation; further proceedings to determine sentence)
  - Sentencing phase is separate proceeding after conviction
  - Need unanimous finding of at least two aggravating factors for death penalty
  - If less than 8 jurors agree to death penalty, sentence is life without possibility of parole

Election Integrity

HJR679/SJR802. Term Limits for Members of Boards of County Commissioners and District School Boards

Summary: Proposes amendments to Constitution to provide term limits for members of boards of county commissioners & district school boards
Status: Passed House 82-33 (4 nv); SJR801 passed Ethics and Elections 6-2; killed in Community Affairs with no vote, Chair Sen Stan McClain (R, D9, Alachua, Levy & Marion Counties); Republicans in House who voted against:
- Rep Jeff Holcomb (R, D59, Hernando and Pasco Counties) – nv
- Rep Chad Johnson (R, D22, Levy and Alachua Counties) – NO
- Rep Kiyan Michael (R, D; D16, Duval County) – nv
- Rep Susan Plasencia (R, D37, Orange and Seminole Counties) – nv
Sponsor: Sen Blaise Ingoglia (R, D11, Citrus, Hernando, Sumter & Pasco Counties)
Details: Submitted to electors of state to amend State Constitution Section 1 of Article VIII and Section 4 of Article IX
- 8 consecutive years for county commission (years before Nov 3, 2026 don’t count); single-member district elected commissioner can run for county-wide chairperson or county mayor
- 8 consecutive years for school board (years before Nov 8, 2022 don’t count)

HB1205/SB7016. Tightening petition collection process – PASSED

Summary:
Status: Signed by Governor on 5/2; passed House 81-30 (8 nv); passed Senate 28-9 (1 abs)
Sponsor: Rep Jenna Persons-Mulicka (R, D78, Lee County)
Details: Amends 15.21 (Initiative petitions; s. 3, Art. XI, State Constitution) to require ballot summary, full text, and financial impact statement of proposed revision or amendment
- Amends 16.061 (Initiative petitions) to require compliance of the financial impact statement; only Supreme Court can find fault and then refer it to Financial Impact Estimating Conference for redrafting
- Amends 97.021 (Definitions) removed “for compensation” in definition of “petition circulator” so anyone who collects 25 or more petitions is a “petition circulator” (own and family member petitions don’t count)
- Amends 99.097 (Verification of signatures on petitions) for admin change (100.371(14) from 100.371(11)… petition form can’t be bundled with any other petition)
- Amends 100.371 (Initiatives; procedure for placement on ballot)
  - Sponsors must register at least every third election cycle or signatures expire and political committee disbanded
  - Sponsor limited to one amendment; must register as political committee before circulating petition forms
  - Petition form must include:
    - petition number
    - ballot title
    - ballot summary
    - notice that form becomes public record upon receipt by supervisor
    - notice that first degree misdemeanor to knowingly sign a petition more than once
    - notice that form will not be validated if all requested info is not completed, financial impact statement
    - Full text of proposed amendment
    - Name and address of sponsor
    - Date received by Secretary of state
    - Bar code or serial number associated with initiative petition
    - Full name of voter
    - Voter’s address and county of legal residence
    - Voter’s Florida voter registration number or date of birth
    - Voters Florida driver license number or ID card number or last four digits of Social Security number
    - Voter affirms ” I am not a convicted felon, or, if I am, my right to vote has been restored,” (can use check box)
    - Voter affirms “Are you a citizen of the United States of America?” (can use check box)
    - Voter affirms “Are you a resident of the state of Florida?” (can use check box)
    - Warning that voter signature is under penalty of perjury if information is not true (104.011)
    - Attestation that voter is registered Florida voter and is petitioning the Secretary of State to place the proposed amendment on the ballot
    - Voters signature and date
    - Petition circulator’s name, permanent address, petition circulator number or barcode and signature under penalty of perjury
  - Third degree felony to collect, deliver, or physically possess more than 25 signed petition forms unless person is registered as petition circulator
  - Min font size is 10pt; full text can 6pt to keep it under 1 page front and back
  - Person can’t collect signatures or initiative petitions if…
    - Convicted felon with voter rights not restored
    - Not citizen of US
    - Not resident of Florida
  - Citizens can challenge petition circulator’s registration in circuit court; if not, court can enjoin respondent from collecting signatures
  - To register to collect signatures or initiative petitions, person has to complete training for petition circulators (available electronically form division’s website)
    - Overview of petition-gathering process
    - Overview of petition circulator registration requirements
    - Explanation of sponsor of initiative amendment serves as fiduciary to each voter who signs petition
    - Florida Election Code prohibits compensation or provision of any benefit based on the number of forms gathered
    - Specific criminal penalties petition circulator may be subject for violating Florida Election Code
  - Sponsor liable for $50,000 fine for each person the sponsor knowingly allows to collect petition forms in violation of this subsection
  - Division (not supervisor of elections) makes petition forms available via PDF (not hard copy)
  - Petitions must be submitted to supervisor of elections in the county the voter resides within 10 days (was 30). $50 fee for each day late; $2,500 (was $250) for each petition form if sponsor or petition circulator acted willfully; also fines if after election deadline
  - If person collected signs another person’s name or a fictitious name or completes any missing information on a signed petition… fine of $5,000 for each such petition
  - Person collecting petitions that copies or retains voter’s personal information commits third degree felony
  - Can’t mail petition forms to voters ($50 fine per violation)
  - Sponsor may not be liable for violations if self-reported to Secretary of State
  - Last day of each month (and last day of each week from Dec 1 to Feb 1 during election cycle), each supervisor must electronically transmit all received petition forms to the division with forms identified as valid or not valid
  - Each supervisor retains all petition forms; between Feb 1 deadline and March 15, physical forms delivered to the division (where they’re retained for 1 year)
  - Beginning Oct 1, 2025, when signature on petition form is verified as valid, supervisor shall notify the voter by mail with postage prepaid preaddressed form for Office of Election Crimes and Security… provides text to notify voter and check box to return notice “if you believe your signature was been misrepresented or forged”
  - Office of Election Crimes and Security forwards these forms to the Division that invalidates the petitions
  - For any reporting period, if percentage of petition forms deemed invalided by supervisor exceeds 25% of petitions, must notify Office of Election Crimes and Security which will conduct preliminary investigation into sponsor, petition circulators, or person collecting petition forms; report findings to statewide prosecutor or state attorney if violations occurred
  - Signed petition form ineligible or unregistered petition circulator must be invalidated and will not be counted
  - Rules for sponsor communicating with Office of Economic and Demographic Research
  - Financial Impact Estimating Conference convened by President of the Senate and Speaker of the House jointly; composed for one person from professional staff of Governor’s office or state agency; coordinator of the Office of Economic and Demographic Research (or designee); one person from professional staff of Senate designated by Senate President; one person from professional staff of Hours designated by the Speaker
  - Sponsor of the initiative must refile the petition with the revised financial impact statement with the Secretary of State as a new petition
  - All petition circulator registrations expire July 1, 2025 and must reregister by completing a new application
  - Supervisors of elections may increase cost of signature verification before Oct 1, 2025
- Amends 101.161 (Referenda; ballots) for required financial impact statement on petition form
- Amends 102.111 (Elections Canvassing Commission) and 102.121 (Elections Canvassing Commission to issue certificates) to include meetings for each constitutional amendment; certificates must include total number of votes case for and against each constitutional amendment
- Creates 106.151 (Use of public funds prohibited) state government may not expend or authorize public funds for political advertisement or any communication sent to electors concerning any proposed constitutional amendment or revision

HB1265/SB1456. Elections of County Commissioners, District School Board Members, and District School Superintendents (similar to HB1263/SB1454)

Summary: Single-member districts for county commissioners and school board members (identical districts)
Status: HS1265 killed to Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee with no votes; Chair Rep Alex Rizo (R, D112, Miami-Dade County); SB1456 referred to Community Affairs committee; killed with no vote; Chair, Sen Stan McClain (R, D9, Alachua, Levy & Marion Counties)
Sponsor: Rep Daniel Alvarez (R, D69, Hillsborough County) and Rep Michael Owen (R; D70, Hillsborough and Manatee Counties); Sen Jay Collins (R, D14, Hillsborough County)
Details: Amends 124.01 (Division of counties into districts; county commissioners) to require single-member districts (only electors in the district get to vote for the commissioner from that district); number of commissioners based on population (>2.5M is 13 members; 1.25-2.499M is 9 members; 750K-1.259M is 7 members; <749K is 5 members)
- Repeals 124.011 (Alternate procedure for the election of county commissioners to provide for single-member representation; applicability)
- Amends 100.041 (Officers chosen at general election) to remove 124.011 exception (i.e., county commissioners elected in general election)
- Amends 1001.34 (Membership of district school board) so school board member districts are the same as county commission districts
- Repeals 1001.36 (District school board member residence areas)
- Amends 1001.361 (Election of board by districtwide vote) to force single-member districts for school board members
- Repeals 1001.362 (Alternate procedure for the election of district school board members to provide for single-member representation)
- Amends 1001.46 (District school superintendent; election and term of office) to remove option for superintendent to appoint successor
- Repeals 1001.461 (District school superintendent; procedures for making office appointive)
- Amends 1001.38 (Vacancies; how filled) to require school board members to live in their districts
- Amends 1001.50 (Superintendents employed under Art. IX of the State Constitution) to remove option to appoint superintendent

HB1449. Agency Contracting with Media Reliability and Bias Monitors

Summary: Prohibits agencies from entering into contracts with (or providing support for) media reliability & bias monitors
Status: Killed in Government Operations Subcommittee with no vote; Chair Rep Linda Chaney (R, D61, Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties)
Sponsor: Rep John Snyder (R, D86, Martin and Palm Beach Counties)
Details: Creates 287.139 (Contracting with media reliability and bias monitors)
- Defines media reliability and bias monitors, MRBM (rate or rank news and information sources for factual accuracy; provide ratings or opinion on news sources regarding misinformation, bias, journalistic standards, ethics and/or fact checking); does not include ratings for audience size, viewership, demographic info
- Agencies may not enter into contract or other agreement with MRBM or use advertising or marketing services using MRBM
- Can’t provide support in any form to MRBM
- Must get statement from advertising or marketing contractors after 7/1/2025 that they don’t use MRBM

2nd Amendment Liberties

HB383/SB490. Exempts LEO, correctional officers, and military from 3-day waiting period for firarm purchases

Summary:
Status:
Sponsor:
Details

HB759/SB920. Lower minimum age to purcahse firearm from 21 to 18… also SB1716, SB94

Summary:
Status:
Sponsor:
Details

SB814. Firearms at school-sponsored event or property

HB6013/SB1234. Repeal Florida’s bump-stock ban

Summary:
Status:
Sponsor:
Details

HB6025/SB952. Repeal prohibition on sale of firearms or ammo during state of emergency

Summary:
Status:
Sponsor:
Details

Other bills

SB92. Front license plates

Summary:
Status:
Sponsor:
Details:

HB359/SB1018. Property tax exemption (also SB1016)

Summary:
Status:
Sponsor:
Details: Increase Homestead exemption to $100K (HB359) or $75K (SB1018)

HB477/SB56. Ban geoengineering, weather modification

Summary:
Status:
Sponsor:
Details:

HB767/SB996. Cap year-over-year property tax exemption

Summary:
Status:
Sponsor:
Details:

SB852. Study on property taxes

Summary:
Status:
Sponsor:
Details:

SB1318. Prohibit handset use while driving

Summary:
Status:
Sponsor:

HB1445. Public Officers and Employees (similar to SB1760) – PASSED

Summary: Must be US citizens and residents of Florida
Status: Enrolled (waiting governor signature); passed House 91-1 (21 nv); passed Senate 37-0 (1 nv)
Sponsor:; Rep Debbie Mayfield (R, D32, Brevard County) Rep Richard Gentry (R, D27, Lake, Marioun Volusia Counties); SB1760 by Sen Erin Grall (R, D29, Glades, Highlands, Indian River, Okeechobee, St Lucie Counties)
Details: Creates Statute 20.71. Residency requirements.—Notwithstanding any other law:
- Effective Oct 1, 2025, following persons must be US citizen and resident of Florida:
  - Secretary of a department
  - Executive director of a department
  - Chief administrative officer of any unit of state government
  - Member of a commission
  - Member of a licensing board
  - Chair of government board or chief executive of statewide entity created or established by statute
  - Any other person appointed to hold state office in the executive branch
- Effective Jan 6, 2027, members of state university board of trustees must be US citizen and either resident of Florida or graduate of the state university being overseen
- Effective Jan 6, 2027, members of the Board of Governors must be US citizen and either resident of Florida or graduate of a state university
- Anyone who doesn’t meet requirements by the stated date is removed and office is considered vacant
Amends 104.31 (Political activities of state, county, and municipal officers and employees)… can’t use official authority or influence to solicit (added) or make contribution (added) to any political (added) party, candidate for public office (added), political committee (added); deletes large section on “provisions of paragraph (a) shall not be construed so as to limit the poltical activity…”
Amends 112.061 (Per diem and travel expenses of public officers, employees, and authorized persons; statewide travel management system.)… not reimbursed for travel between residence and official headquarters
Creates Statute 112.31251. Definition of the term “office.”… legalese to separate official offices form emlpoyees and contractors
Amends 112.3261 (Lobbying before water management districts; registration and reporting)… prohibits making or receiving expenditures
Amends 1001.71 (University boards of trustees; membership)… removed state residency requirement