TALLAHASSEE With the signing of a state budget and numerous other laws by Governor Ron DeSantis, the 2025 legislative session is now complete. The following ten laws went into effect on Tuesday, the first day of the fiscal year 2025–2026:
BALLOT INITIATIVES: On Tuesday, a bill (HB 1205) that imposes more limitations on the ballot-initiative procedure went into effect. The law is being challenged in federal court by organizations supporting proposed constitutional amendments.
BUDGET: Along with legislative leaders, DeSantis signed SB 2500 on Monday, stating that it will assist the state get ready for a potential economic downturn. DeSantis vetoed $567 million worth of line items from the budget, which, when approved by the Legislature, had a $115.1 billion bottom line.
FLUORIDE: The long-standing practice of local governments adding fluoride to water sources is prohibited by a comprehensive measure (SB 700) pertaining to matters affecting the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
GULF OF AMERICA: The Republican-controlled Legislature passed HB 575, a bill that would change dozens of state laws to refer to the Gulf of America rather than the Gulf of Mexico, in response to President Donald Trump’s directive.
JUDGES: A bill (SB 2508) that would add 15 county-court judges and 22 circuit-court judges to the state’s judiciary, as well as alter two appeals courts, was adopted by lawmakers.
PUBLIC RECORDS: A bill (SB 268) will prohibit the disclosure of the home addresses and phone numbers of lawmakers, members of Congress, and many other state and municipal elected officials after lawmakers pointed to threats and harassment.
SCHOOL START TIME: A 2023 law that would have prohibited high schools from opening earlier than 8:30 a.m. was rescinded by lawmakers through the passage of a measure (SB 296). The goal of the 2023 bill was to increase teen sleep, and it was supposed to go into force in 2026.
STATE PARKS: A new law (HB 209) will prohibit the construction of golf courses, resort-style lodges, and sports facilities in state parks following a public uproar over a development proposal last year.
STUDENT CELL PHONES: A bill (HB 1105) that strengthens the ban on cell phone use during class time will forbid elementary and middle school students from using their phones throughout the school day.
TAX CUTS: On Tuesday, sales tax exemptions for storm preparation items and specific outdoor activity expenditures were implemented as part of a tax-cut package (HB 7031). Later, other provisions will be implemented, such as the removal of the commercial-lease tax.
