FL Legislative Update - Early February 2025

Immigration Bills Pass in Florida

Earlier this month, the Florida Legislature passed three controversial immigration bills in special session, which were signed into law by Governor DeSantis. These bills represent a dramatic shift in the legislature’s stance on immigration:

• One of the new laws creates a State Board of Immigration Enforcement, controlled by DeSantis and state officials, to oversee $250 million in grants for local law enforcement to enforce immigration laws. It also establishes an Immigration Enforcement Council made up of sheriffs and police chiefs.

• SB 4-C introduces the death penalty for undocumented immigrants convicted of capital crimes, which Democrats argue is unconstitutional.

• SB 2-C repeals in-state tuition for Dreamers, making higher education unaffordable for many young undocumented students.

These measures, costing $298 million, will severely impact immigrant communities and young people seeking an education. No stipulations were put in place for businesses hiring undocumented workers. Let’s continue asking tough questions and holding our leaders accountable!

Protecting Florida’s State Parks

Senator Gayle Harrell’s SB 80, the State Park Preservation Act, passed its first committee hearing. This bill ensures public hearings for land management changes, requires transparency in leases and permits, and involves advisory groups in planning—all aimed at preventing backroom deals like DeSantis's attempt to put a golf course on state park land.

Last summer’s proposal to commercialize state parks sparked outrage across party lines, and rightfully so. Our state parks are meant to be preserved, not commercialized! Hats off to Senator Harrell and the committee for standing up for Florida’s natural treasures!

Culture Wars Diverting Attention from Critical Issues

For the 3rd year in a row, a flag ban bill is being proposed in Tallahassee, taking up valuable legislative time and resources. While important issues like rising property insurance premiums and cuts to arts funding remain unaddressed, lawmakers are focusing on divisive cultural debates. This bill has already passed through one committee, despite opposition from some Senate members.

Additional Legislative Updates

This was the final committee week before the start of session. 983 bills have been filed so far, but still another week to file. 

Sen Pres Ben Albritton called for a rural renaissance, Sen Corey Simon filed SB 110 to this end with various provisions. 

House workgroups reviewed DeSantis budget vetoes from last year, including 160 vetoed water projects. Another group examined arts, cultural and historical vetoes and recommended 6 overrides. 

Plascentia put forth HB 223 which would allow installation of cameras in elder care facilities. 

The Senate is looking at ideas for affordable housing including allowing ‘accessory dwellings’ but the fear is that they will be used as vacation rentals.

The Board of Governors approved former Lt. Governor Jeanette Nunez as Interim President of FIU, and approved former State Rep. Adam Hasner as President of FAU.

James Uthmeier was sworn in this week as Florida Attorney General to replace Ashley Moody who was appointed by the governor to the US Senate.