From Politico Florida:
Lawmakers wrapped up most of their regular work for the year Friday — without passing a budget. They also didn’t pass a major tax cut package tied to the budget. Instead, legislative leaders announced a plan to take a break until May 12 and gave themselves until June 6 to pass a spending plan for the coming year.
It was, to put it politely, very odd. House Speaker DANIEL PEREZ told House members there is a deal worked out that would lead to $2.8 billion worth of tax cuts, including a $1.6 billion reduction in the state’s sales tax rate. Perez called it “historic.”
And yet … there are few details beyond what Perez said late Friday night. Legislators and leaders scattered quickly after the late-night adjournment.
Senate President BEN ALBRITTON made remarks to his chamber, making two interesting distinctions. He said the House and Senate had a “framework” for the budget and mentioned the tax deal. But Albritton then said the two sides are still working on “allocations” — the top-line levels needed ahead of a budget conference.
Albritton added that he was “hopeful” work would begin the week of May 12th. Hmm.
Let’s remember that the House and Gov. RON DESANTIS feuded all session, nearly throwing the 60-day legislative period off the rails. And there was a lot of sniping between the House and Senate in the final days of the regular session.
Another sign of potential remaining tension is the open-ended nature of the “extension” the two sides adopted late Friday. Past extensions have usually been much shorter in duration. The House and Senate actually agreed to an extension that is longer than the time frame allowed in the constitution for special sessions. Hmmm.
Did legislative leaders do this to ensure DeSantis would not call them back to town over the next month? It is worth noting that procedurally, an extension is easier to work through than a special session because lawmakers don’t have to start from scratch again on spending bills. But still.
That extension does allow for legislators to keep working on a key priority for Albritton: A “Rural Renaissance” package. POLITICO’s Bruce Ritchie writes that “Albritton had said his initiative would provide an economic boost in rural areas where some of the ‘most pristine, natural old Florida exists.’ The bill would appropriate $200 million for rural counties, including $50 million in financial support for 29 designated ‘fiscally constrained’ counties.’”
Lastly, let’s throw this concept into the mix. Let’s say that the Legislature comes back the week of May 12 and is able to actually piece together a budget over a two- or three-week period. If they send the budget to DeSantis well ahead of the June 6 deadline, they could technically stay in session — and be prepared to come back to town for any veto overrides from a potentially angry governor.
In other words, this ride may be far from over.
— Gary Fineout
A ROUNDUP OF BILLS THAT PASSED IN THE 11TH HOUR …
— The Legislature agreed to expand “student cellphone restrictions and expanding school choice through new rules for charter and private schools,” reports POLITICO’s Andrew Atterbury.
— The House unanimously approved HB 1299, reports Christine Sexton of the Florida Phoenix. “The bill extends the legal definition of mRNA vaccines and continues a ban on businesses, government entities, and education institutions from denying entry or service based on vaccination status. Mask requirements are also banned under the law, which DeSantis persuaded the Legislature to approve in 2021.”
— “Legislature OKs Nick DiCeglie’s massive hurricane preparation, response package,” reports Florida Politics’ Janelle Irwin Taylor.
— “‘Lucy’s Law,’ named after teen killed in Biscayne Bay boat crash, passes in session’s final hours,” reports David Goodhue, Grethel Aguila and Ana Ceballos of the Miami Herald.
— “In last-minute push, lawmakers approve measure to treat Florida detainees with mental illness,” reports Florida Politics’ Drew Dixon.
MEASURES ALSO DIED, INCLUDING …
— “A Senate proposal to ban cities and counties from regulating bags, cups and other ‘auxiliary’ containers,” reports POLITICO’s Bruce Ritchie.
— “A far-reaching measure sought by Perez to heighten transparency for university presidential searches — and prevent the governor from getting involved — died, as did ideas pushed by the Senate to ‘deregulate’ K-12 schools and funnel more resources to rural campuses and colleges,” reports POLITICO’s Andrew Atterbury.
— Several topics that got a lot of buzz at the start of session were left on the cutting room floor, reports Romy Ellenbogen of the Tampa Bay Times, from property insurance and property tax reduction to hemp regulations and loosening child labor laws.
— “LGBTQ advocates are celebrating several bills — including one that could have banned Pride flags flown at government buildings — stalling out this Session,” reports Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics. “Equity Florida also heralded the defeat of other bills, including HB 1495/SB 440 to prevent governments from using the preferred pronouns for people who are transgender and other bills targeting diversity, equity and inclusion.”
A more focused synopsis from one of our local Legislative Aides:
Rep Giallombardo:
Local Bill to change Lee County Commission to change from 5 at large districts to 5 single member districts. Will require a majority vote of lee county voters in 2026 ballot. There is a possibility of a Gov veto but it is highly unlikely in a local bill (in 12 years I can only recall it happening 1 time). Let me know if you want further info since this bill has been a hot topic locally for decades.
Bill to provide enhanced criminal penalties for trespassing on property maintained or secured by federal, state, or local law enforcement officers if specified notice is posted, etc. This bill was in reaction to the Copa America finals chaos at the Hard Rock Stadium. Not expecting a Gov veto.
Bill to specify a law enforcement officer, correctional officer, or military servicemember with valid employer-issued identification as fulfilling the requirements for a concealed weapons or firearms license. The benefit of this designation will allow a member to receive a background check along with a same day purchase of a firearm from a retailer. Not expecting a Gov veto.
Local Bill to merge Fort Myers Beach Mosquito Control with Lee County Mosquito Control. Will require a majority vote of lee county voters in 2026 ballot. There is a possibility of a Gov veto but it is highly unlikely in a local bill (in 12 years I can only recall it happening 1 time). This was a Rep Botana bill originally. Rep Giallombardo sponsored it as a courtesy to him as he was barred from filing it due to a procedural rule.
Local Bill to change San Carlos Estates Water Control District, independent special district, to a dependent district of City of Bonita Springs (again possible but unlikely Gov veto). Will require 2 lee county votes – a vote by bonita springs and a vote by san carlos estates water control district residents. Bill will only go into effect if a majority is reached in BOTH. Also a courtesy file for Rep Botana.
HB 991. In limbo. Might still pass but is under serious negotiations between the Senate and House. Originally, it was a bill to slowly sunset all Community Redevelopment Agencies across Florida. CRA’s are meant to help poor urban areas (think Tice/Dunbar) but have been abused by way too many municipalities. Back in 2018 the legislature placed heavier regulations and oversight on CRAs after finding out municipalities were using them for things like funding the Gasparilla Festival. It did not work. Additionally, CRA’s are required to sunset BUT city councils/county commissions can vote to extend them. So the public gets stuck with them forever. We had many Florida residents email us showing support for removing CRAs and telling us how sick and tired they are of their municipality abusing CRAs. Then towards the end of session a large amount of other bills were added to it, including the Senate President’s priority bill to help revitalize rural Florida. https://www.flhouse.gov/Sections/Bills/billsdetail.aspx?BillId=81623&SessionId=105
Bill to close the stipend loophole for all municipalities so no more Cape Coral City Council shenanigans. Passed 108 to 3 in House. Died in Senate (in Senator Passidomo’s Rules Committee).
Rep Botana:
Students Enrolled in Dropout Retrieval Program. Senate companion bill passed. Link to bill, bill analysis is the best resource to understand the bill https://www.flhouse.gov/Sections/Bills/billsdetail.aspx?BillId=81740
Additionally, see the 2 local bills from above.
Rep Esposito:
Local Bill to create the Duke Farm Stewardship Distrct. I believe a referendum (voting of the public) is only necessary to elect the board and to levy taxes. I’m not positive though. https://www.flhouse.gov/Sections/Documents/loaddoc.aspx?FileName=h4025z.IAS.DOCX&DocumentType=Analysis&BillNumber=4025&Session=2025
Administrative Procedures Bill. Senate companion bill passed. https://www.flhouse.gov/Sections/Bills/billsdetail.aspx?BillId=81010
Electronic Delivery of Notices Between Landlords and Tenants: Authorizes landlord or tenant to electronically deliver notices to other party if certain conditions are met; requires addendum to rental agreement to be in specified form; authorizes party to revoke his or her agreement to electronic delivery without invalidating notices previously sent by e-mail; specifies when such revocation takes effect; authorizes party to update his or her e-mail address; specifies when such update takes effect; provides that notice delivered by e-mail is deemed delivered at time e-mail is sent; provides exception; requires sender of e-mail to maintain certain information. Gov already signed it and becomes law July 1st.
Use of Tracking Devices or Applications to Commit Dangerous Crimes: Provides enhanced criminal penalties for installation, placement, or use of tracking devices or tracking applications to commit or facilitate commission of dangerous crimes. Senate companion bill passed. If no veto, effective Oct. 1st.
Industries and Professional Activities: Renames, removes, & redesignates specified boards, commissions, & councils established within DBPR; changes office locations of certain divisions; requires DBPR to provide to Division of Professions summary of changes to statutory law within specified time period after adjournment of session; revises retail nicotine product dealer administrative penalties; authorizes Division of Alcoholic Beverages & Tobacco to assist any agent of DACS in enforcing state hemp program; authorizes division to enter any public or private premises during specified timeframe in performance of its duties. TECHNICALLY DEAD. Bill language was added to Rep Giallombardo HB 991 – which is currently in limbo and in negotiations.
Rep Oliver: (freshman members tend to pass the most bills as members in leadership have much greater limitations on bill filing, especially committee chairmen)
Health Facilities : Revises definition of term “health facility”; authorizes authority to make mortgage or other secured or unsecured loans & refund or refinance outstanding bonds, obligations, loans, indebtedness, or advances issued, made, given, or incurred by or for benefit of any health facility for cost of project in accordance with specified agreement; authorizes authority to lease certain projects to health facility under loan agreement; provides that specified projects financed by authority shall be governed by one or more loan agreements; provides requirements for such loan agreements; authorizes authority to require certain health facilities to operate, repair, & maintain projects & bear certain costs; authorizes issuance of revenue bonds of other issuers if proceeds were used for specified purposes; provides requirements for closure of not-for-profit hospitals; provides tax exemption criteria for hospitals. Senate companion bill passed.
Boating Safety: Revises & provides penalties for vessel collisions, accidents, casualties, reckless operation, & providing false information in specified reports; revises requirements for operating certain vessels; requires person convicted of certain noncriminal infractions to pay fine; provides minimum mandatory prison term for BUI manslaughter.
Trusts: Revises provisions relating to invasion of trust principal, claims against former trustees, certain property transferred to donee during settlor’s lifetime, community property, & community property trusts. Senate companion bill passed.
Third-party Reservation Platforms: Prohibits reservation at public food service establishment from being listed, advertised, promoted, or sold through third-party reservation platform; provides exception; authorizes Division of Hotels & Restaurants of DBPR to impose civil penalty not to exceed specified amount for violation of this act or of division rule; provides that such violations shall accrue on daily basis for certain establishments. Senate companion bill passed.
Children’s Medical Services Program: Transfers operation of Children’s Medical Services Managed Care Plan from DOH to AHCA, effective on specified date; provides construction as to judicial & administrative actions pending as of specified date & time; requires department’s Children’s Medical Services (CMS) program to collaborate with agency in care of children & youth with special health care needs; requires CMS program to conduct certain clinical eligibility screenings & provide ongoing consultation to agency for specified purpose; requires agency to implement approved waiver amendment subject to certain conditions; authorizes agency to adopt rules; requires agency to submit results of evaluation to Governor & Legislature by specified date; requires ACHA to develop comprehensive plan to redesign Florida Medicaid Model Waiver for home & community-based services to include children who receive private duty nursing services; providing requirements for the redesign of waiver program; requires agency to submit specified report to Governor & Legislature. Senate companion bill passed.
Local Bill to create the Bermont Drainage District in Charlotte County
Limitation of Size of Individual Wine Containers: Revises an exception to the maximum allowable capacity for an individual container of wine sold in this state. Senate companion bill passed.
Rep Persons-Mulicka:
Limited Liability Companies: Creates and revises provisions addressing certain domestic and foreign limited liability companies, series, and protected series, including registered series and protected series. Senate companion bill passed.
Tampering With, Harassing, or Retaliating Against Court Officials: Provides criminal penalties for persons who knowingly & willfully threaten specified court personnel, knowingly & willfully harass specified court personnel with certain intent, knowingly with certain intent tamper with court officials, intentionally harass court officials when such harassment has specified outcome, or retaliate against court officials for their participation in official investigations or proceedings.
Amendments to the State Constitution: Revises provisions relating to amendments to State Constitution including initiative petitions; handling petitions; sponsor & petition circulator registration; signature verification procedures; signature revocation; record retention; duties & responsibilities of supervisors of elections, Division of Elections, & DOS; Financial Impact Estimating Conference; certification of elections involving constitutional amendments; public funding; & criminal penalties. Gov signed it and it became law on May 5th.https://www.flhouse.gov/Sections/Bills/billsdetail.aspx?BillId=81899&SessionId=105
Senator Albritten: as Senate President he cannot file any bills.
Senator Passidomo: as Senate Rules chair (most powerful position outside of Senate President) she cannot file any bills.
Senator Martin:
Health Facilities; Revising the definition of the term “health facility” to include other entities and associations organized not for profit; revising the powers of health facilities authorities to include the power to issue certain loans and execute related loan agreements; specifying requirements for projects financed by loan agreements issued by a health facilities authority; authorizing, rather than requiring, a hospital to perform a confirmation test under certain circumstances, etc. (with Rep Oliver)
Exploitation of Vulnerable Adults; Authorizing the use of substitute service on unascertainable respondents; requiring the court to enter an order providing for specified service when a petitioner files the sworn affidavit; requiring that any proposed transfer of funds or property in dispute be held for a specified time period, etc.
Boating Safety; Citing this act as “Lucy’s Law”; revising the definition of the term “livery vessel”; revising and providing penalties for vessel collisions, accidents, and casualties; revising and providing penalties for reckless or careless operation of a vessel; requiring the suspension of driver licenses for boating under the influence and reckless or careless operation of a vessel; requiring a person convicted of a certain criminal violation or certain noncriminal infractions within a specified period to complete a boater safety education course, etc. House companion bill passed (Rep Oliver).
Sexual Offenses by Persons Previously Convicted of Sexual Offenses; Providing mandatory minimum terms of imprisonment for specified sexual offenses when committed by registered sexual offenders or sexual predators; providing requirements for such sentences, etc. House companion bill passed.
Probation for Misdemeanor Offenses; Increasing probationary periods for certain misdemeanor offenses involving controlled or chemical substances, etc.
Sexual Cyberharassment; Providing criminal penalties for persons who sexually cyberharass other persons with specified intent or purpose; authorizing an aggrieved person to initiate a civil action to recover punitive damages; providing time limitations for commencing prosecution for violations of sexual cyberharassment, etc. House companion bill passed.
Corrections; Revising provisions relating to deferral of prepayment of court costs and fees for indigent prisoners for actions involving challenges to prison disciplinary reports; providing for a 1-year period of limitation for bringing certain actions relating to the condition of confinement of prisoners; requiring exhaustion of administrative remedies before certain actions concerning confinement of prisoners may be brought; requiring a court to impose consecutive terms of imprisonment if the offender is convicted of multiple specified felony offenses, etc. House companion bill passed.
Capital Human Trafficking of Vulnerable Persons for Sexual Exploitation; Specifying that a defendant’s memorialized confession or admission in cases of capital human trafficking of vulnerable persons for sexual exploitation is admissible during trial under specified circumstances; requiring that an offender who is convicted of committing capital human trafficking of vulnerable persons for sexual exploitation be designated as a sexual predator; prohibiting a person 18 years of age or older from knowingly initiating, organizing, planning, financing, directing, managing, or supervising a venture that has subjected a child younger than 12 years of age, or a person who is mentally defective or mentally incapacitated, to human trafficking for sexual exploitation, etc.
Waste Management; Deleting obsolete provisions that provide legislative findings and require the Department of Environmental Protection to review and update a specified report; preempting the regulation of auxiliary containers to the state; permitting rules, regulations, or ordinances restricting the use of glass auxiliary containers within the boundaries of a public beach; prohibiting a local government and the Department of Environmental Protection, respectively, from issuing a construction permit for certain solid waste disposal facilities in certain counties, etc. House companion bill passed.
Trespass; Providing enhanced criminal penalties for trespassing on property maintained or secured by federal, state, or local law enforcement officers if specified notice is posted; prohibiting a person from willfully entering or remaining in a venue during certain ticketed covered events without being authorized, licensed, or invited to enter or remain in such venue, etc. House companion bill passed (Rep Giallombardo)
Tampering With, Harassing, or Retaliating Against Court Officials; Providing criminal penalties for persons who knowingly and willfully threaten specified court personnel; providing criminal penalties for persons who knowingly and willfully harass specified court personnel with certain intent; providing criminal penalties for persons who intentionally harass court officials when such harassment has a specified outcome; providing criminal penalties for persons who retaliate against court officials for their participation in official investigations or proceedings, etc. House companion bill passed (Persons-Mulicka)
