Legislative Reporter We see a Florida where our communities, economies, and environments all thrive.
The opening week of Florida’s 2026 legislative session set the tone for a politically charged 60-day stretch. Governor Ron DeSantis delivered his final State of the State address on Jan. 13, using the occasion to highlight his administration’s accomplishments over the past seven years. The governor also outlined a proactive agenda for 2026 focused on eliminating property taxes for homestead residences, establishing an AI Bill of Rights to regulate the use of artificial intelligence, and continuing educational reform efforts. The address unfolded against a backdrop of visible tension between the governor and the legislature, particularly the House. This political dynamic may shape the session dynamics as much as policy. Legislative activity began at a rapid pace, with lawmakers immediately taking up high profile issues ranging from gun laws and immigration verification to medical malpractice and school vouchers. Early in the week, both chambers prepared to advance major bills, including the Senate’s Rural Renaissance initiative aimed at boosting funding for rural communities and improving infrastructure, healthcare access, and schools. Meanwhile, the House moved forward on proposals to lower the rifle purchase age to 18, raise sovereign immunity caps, and expand EVerify requirements for businesses. With next week’s agendas already full, the rapid pace shows no signs of slowing.
Opening Day of Session
Florida’s 2026 Regular Legislative Session began on Tuesday, Jan. 13, with the House and Senate presiding officers sharing their priorities for the next 60 days and a joint session to receive Governor Ron DeSantis’s final State of the State address. President Ben Albritton (R-Wauchula) began his opening remarks by saying that “collaboration and communication are the driving forces” of the Senate and that “thoughtful deliberations” must continue to ensure we “understand the outcomes and consequences of the decisions we make.” The President said the Senate will continue evaluating state spending, reducing state debt, cutting taxes, and saving for the future. He announced a renewed commitment to his Rural Renaissance initiative, noting that the Trump Administration may use it as a national model. Albritton noted that “affordability” is on Floridians’ minds, but the legislature’s ability to affect the costs of goods and services during a 60-day session is limited. In his opening comments, House Speaker Danny Perez (R-Miami) said his goals remain unchanged from last session – standing firm on principle, insisting on the House’s independence, and that the chamber “stands ready to work with anyone who is willing to put the needs of our state first.” Perez listed “affordability and insurance; taxes and the economy; prescription drug prices and the rising cost of public benefits,” as priorities but did not provide details. Instead, the Speaker said the work before the House is to “… ensure Florida stays at the center of our planet’s race for the stars, and that our infrastructure keeps pace with our growth.” Governor DeSantis outlined his administration’s accomplishments over the past seven years, including stabilizing the property insurance market and lowering auto rates, record funding for Everglades restoration, addressing illegal immigration, and ensuring universal school choice. Further, the governor called on lawmakers to approve a constitutional amendment for the November 2026 ballot that would provide property tax relief to Floridians, a message he has emphasized since the summer.