TALHASSEE — The dust settled at the 2025 legislative meeting as Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a surge in the state’s budget and other bills. Below are 10 laws that came into effect on Tuesday, the commencement of the fiscal year 2025-2026.
Voting Initiative: The Act (HB 1205) setting additional restrictions on the Voting Initiative Process came into effect primarily on Tuesday. The group supporting proposed constitutional reform is fighting federal court law.
Budget: DeSantis signed the Budget (SB 2500) on Monday. He and the legislative leaders said it will help prepare the nation in the event of a recession. Desantis has issued a $567 million veto in its budget.
Fluoride: The wide range of bills on issues involving the Ministry of Agriculture and Consumer Services (SB 700) prohibits long-standing practices of local governments to add fluoride to water supply.
US Gulf: Following President Donald Trump’s leadership, Republican-controlled Congress has approved measures (HB 575) that change dozens of state laws to use the name “USA Gulf” rather than “Gulf of Mexico.”
Judges: Lawmakers approved a bill (SB 2508) requiring the addition of 22 circuit judges and 15 county judges throughout the state, making changes in two courts of appeals at the same time.
Public Records: As lawmakers point out threats and harassment, the Act (SB 268) prevents the release of home addresses and phone numbers for lawmakers, legislative members, and many other state and local elected officials.
School Start Time: Lawmakers passed a measure (SB 296) that set back from the 2023 law that prevented high schools from starting earlier than 8:30am in 2023, designed to help teens get more sleep.
State Parks: After public protests over development proposals last year, the new law (HB 209) prevents the construction of state park golf courses, resort-style lodges and sports facilities.
Student Mobile Phones: Students are prohibited from using mobile phones throughout school days at primary and secondary schools under a scale that extends limits on using phones during teaching hours (HB 1105).
Tax Reductions: Part of the Tax Reduction Package (HB 7031) came into effect Tuesday, including exemptions from sales tax on certain purchases related to hurricane preparation supplies and outdoor activities. Other parts, including the abolition of commercial lease taxes, will take effect later.
Jim Turner and Jim Sanders, Florida news service
