Legislative Update - March 28, 2025

The legislature has finished week four of the 2025 session. As you know, the only action that the legislature needs to take is to pass a balanced budget. Appropriations bills are being released and now the negotiations will begin to create that balanced budget for 2025-26.

The House met this week and overrode four of the Governor’s appropriation vetoes. Governor DeSantis went to social media to voice his anger at the House Republicans.

Speaker Danny Perez announced a proposal for a sales tax cut, aiming to reduce the rate from 6% to 5.25%.

And they're off — U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds is holding his gubernatorial campaign kickoff today in Bonita Springs.

The Naples Republican will host the hometown kickoff at the Sugarshack Downtown on Old 41 Road. The Southwest Florida event will occur in the heart of Florida’s 19th Congressional District, which Donalds has represented in the House since 2021. He served the region before that in the Florida House for two terms.

Governor …

"DeSantis rips House for budget veto overrides" via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis is publicly criticizing House Republicans for overriding four of his line-item vetoes, accusing them of prioritizing budget padding over addressing critical issues. DeSantis says the House sought to spend millions in taxpayers’ savings and has “not addressed pressing issues that Floridians care about.” The vetoed projects include funding for water treatment, sewer system rehabilitation, a corrections department staffing system and a veterans' crisis fund. DeSantis urges lawmakers to focus on condo crisis relief, medical freedom protections, E-Verify implementation and property tax reduction.

"DeSantis says ‘Tax the tourists. Tax some of the foreigners.’ to offset other revenue losses" via the Orlando Sentinel — DeSantis suggested balancing potential property tax cuts by targeting visitor spending, advocating for taxing tourists and foreigners. DeSantis expressed openness to working with rural counties to offset the effects of property tax cuts. House Speaker Daniel Perez proposed decreasing the state sales tax rate. DeSantis has voiced opposition to increasing sales taxes, saying he is willing to work with rural counties with smaller visitor base: “They don’t have the same luxury that a Broward County would have or a Miami-Dade County would have when you have people that are flooding down there.”

"Rocky Mountain High: Ron DeSantis heads to Idaho, Montana to push Balanced Budget Amendment" via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis is traveling to Idaho and Montana on Monday for news conferences with Governors Brad Little and Greg Gianforte. DeSantis will promote a balanced-budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution, an initiative supported by Republican Governors. In Idaho, DeSantis will participate in an informal rally aimed at state legislators. This trip follows DeSantis' previous remarks dismissing comparisons between Florida's and Idaho's economic growth due to population differences. DeSantis actively supported U.S. Senate candidate Tim Sheehy in Montana last year, where First Lady Casey DeSantis vacationed.

"Donald Trump’s deportation efforts find support among South Florida Latinos" via The Associated Press — Despite a large Hispanic population, Hialeah and Coral Gables are partnering with ICE with little local opposition, reflecting a shift in Latino voter sentiment. Trump's stricter immigration policies, while potentially impacting South Florida's diverse immigrant communities, are meeting less pushback than in his first term.

Frank Ayllon believes Trump's border measures are necessary, echoing Trump's criticism of Joe Biden's border policies. This contrasts with the widespread protests against similar measures in 2017. Kamala Harris' support among Hispanic voters declined from 2020 to 2024, and Trump gained ground in key Florida counties and even flipped some South Texas border counties.

“Eric J. Soskin named Florida’s ‘DOGE’ team lead, senior adviser to DeSantis” via Amber Jo Cooper of Florida’s Voice — Soskin has been named the new team lead of the Florida Department of Government Efficiency and senior adviser to DeSantis, Florida’s Voice has learned. In late February, DeSantis announced plans for a “Florida DOGE task force,” which will work to further eliminate waste within state government, save taxpayers' money, and ensure accountability in Florida, according to an announcement. Soskin previously served as the seventh Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Transportation. He was appointed by Trump and confirmed by the Senate in 2020.

DeSantis Rejects Federal Money as Part of DOGE Effort: Gov. Ron DeSantis trumpeted the state's move to return nearly $900 million to the federal government as part of the federal government efficiency effort undertaken by the Trump Administration. The governor's office said the returned money includes $557 million that Florida received or was authorized to receive for a Refugee Resettlement Program. The rejected money also includes about $320 million in federal money that would have gone to a Florida Department of Transportation carbon reduction program pushed under the Biden Administration. Tallahassee Democrat / Orlando Sentinel / Governor's Letter to Treasury

Legislative …

"Lawmakers could slash sales tax, saving Floridians billions" via Lawrence Mower of the Tampa Bay Times — House Speaker Daniel Perez announced a proposal for a significant sales tax cut, aiming to reduce the rate from 6% to 5.25%. Perez claims this would be "the largest state tax cut in the history of Florida," saving Floridians nearly $5 billion annually through a permanent, recurring reduction.

He said the move would improve affordability in the state by returning money to the people. The proposal requires approval from both the House and Senate before the Legislative Session concludes on May 2.

Property Tax Measure Eyed for '26 Ballot: Voters could be asked to decide whether to increase property tax benefits for owners of residential properties used for long term leases under legislation (HJR 1257) approved Thursday in the House Ways and Means Committee. Carried by Rep. Demi Busatta, R-Coral Gables, the measure would ask voters to change the constitution to provide an assessment limit on properties rented out for six months or more. Committee members raised concerns about a lack of guardrails preventing wealthy owners from receiving multiple exemptions and no guarantee that savings would be passed down to tenants, while supporters argued the measure could expand long-term rental availability and counter rising property tax costs. Debate also addressed potential cuts to local revenues, as well as the proposal's notion that counties have seen substantial increases in property tax collections overall. Implementing legislation (HB 1259) has also already been filed and was also approved in Thursday's committee meeting. A companion measure, SB 1510 by Sen. Bryan Avila, R-Miami Springs, was approved in the Senate Community Affairs Committee earlier this week.

Legislature Gears Up for Budget Rollout - Florida lawmakers are starting to craft the state budget this week for the 2025-26 fiscal year that starts July 1, with both the House and Senate set to unveil their spending plans. The House is expected to begin releasing budget recommendations from its subcommittees on Tuesday, with discussions scheduled in the House Agriculture & Natural Resources Budget Subcommittee, the House Justice Budget Subcommittee, the House PreK-12 Budget Subcommittee, and the House Higher Education Budget Subcommittee. The House Health Care Budget Subcommittee is scheduled to follow with its recommendations on Wednesday. The House Information Technology Budget & Policy Subcommittee got a head start, releasing its proposal last week. Meanwhile, the Senate is slated to unveil its budget recommendations on Wednesday, with the full budget expected to be printed and available by Friday. The Senate Appropriations Committee is set to review the proposal on Wednesday, April 2. LobbyTools 2025 Budget Tab / LobbyTools 2025 Budget Materials / LobbyTools Calendar

House eyes four projects to potentially override DeSantis’ vetoes” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — The House is considering overriding four line-item vetoes by DeSantis to reinstate more than $5 million to fund government infrastructure projects, the Corrections Department’s automated staffing system and a program to help veterans. Lawmakers plan to take up the issue on the floor Wednesday, the House announced via its agenda calendar. In February, House Speaker Daniel Perez created “combined workgroups” to review DeSantis’ vetoes in a sign that the Legislature was standing up to DeSantis. The workgroups were developed as lawmakers publicly feuded with DeSantis about returning to Tallahassee for a Special Session on immigration reform.

“House votes to repeal key provision of Parkland law and lower age to buy assault-style rifle” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — The Florida House passed a repeal of age limits for purchasing firearms, a key provision of gun control measures put in place after the Parkland shooting. Republicans said the bill (HB 759) corrects an inequity in the law that denies 18-year-olds the ability to own a gun despite being old enough to become a police officer or enlist in the military. The bill passed on a 78-34 vote. “To me, this bill is about the right to defend yourself, the right to keep and bear arms, the right to a well-armed militia. That’s what it’s about,” said Rep. Michelle Salzman, a Pensacola Republican who sponsored the bill. “For me, it’s not, it’s not about the tragedies.”

“Senate Committee OKs misgendering of trans people in government jobs” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — A hotly contested proposal that would prohibit the use of preferred pronouns in state and local government workplaces, and limit gender identity training for state and local government employees, won approval in its first Committee stop on Tuesday. Labeled the “Freedom of Conscience in the Workplace Act” (SB 440), the measure, sponsored by Ocala Republican Stan McClain, says that an employee in a public workplace may not be required to refer to another person using that person’s preferred pronouns if such pronouns don’t correspond to that person’s sex at birth. It says that a public employee or contractor similarly cannot require their employer to use their preferred pronouns under the same circumstances.

Agency rulemaking overhaul clears Budget Committee — The House Budget Committee advanced a bill requiring agencies to review all existing rules within five years and issue a report to the Legislature. Agencies must assess each rule's relevance, necessity and fiscal impact. “We’re seizing a once-in-a-generation chance to slash the bloated administrative state,” said Rep. Toby Overdorf, the bill’s sponsor. “This isn’t just an update — it’s a wake-up call. As we applaud federal DOGE efforts to rein in decadeslong government waste, we’re forcing agencies to ditch obsolete rules and run smarter, faster and cheaper, stronger.” The bill is comparable to SB 108, which cleared the full Senate earlier this month. It now heads to the House State Affairs Committee, its final stop before the House floor.

“Speaker has ‘personal concerns’ about a push to loosen child-labor laws” via Ana Ceballos and Romy Ellenbogen of the Miami Herald — House Speaker Perez says he has “personal concerns” about a proposal that would loosen the state’s child-labor laws and allow many teenagers to work overnight jobs on school days without a meal break. The proposal — moving in the Florida Senate but stalling in the House — would remove the state’s labor protections that keep children as young as 14 and 15 from working late nights and early mornings if they are home-schooled or attend virtual school. It would remove all limitations on how late and how much 16- and 17-year-olds can work and end those teenage workers’ guarantee to a meal break.

Tougher E-Verify Measures Yet to Move So Far This Session -  After passing sweeping illegal immigration bills (SB 2C, SB 4C) in a special legislative session in February, Florida's Republican-led Legislature has so far looked unlikely to take further action on efforts to reduce employment of undocumented people this session. Despite several proposals aimed at tightening rules on businesses that employ undocumented workers, none have advanced with a third of the session over. Current law requires private employers with at least 25 workers to use E-Verify to confirm employees' immigration status. Democrats in both chambers filed legislation (SB 782, HB 1033) that would require all employers to use the federal E-verify system, or face large fines and the possible loss of their business license. A Republican version of the measure (HB 955), by GOP Rep. Berny Jacques, would also expand the required usage of the system to smaller employers, but wouldn't have penalties for not doing so. The measures were expected to face opposition from employers who complain about the administrative burden of having to use the federal E-verify system. During the recent special session, Senate Minority Leader Jason Pizzo and other Democrats argued the new laws cracking down on illegal immigrants wouldn't deter immigration because they didn't prevent employers from hiring them. None of the pending proposals have been heard or placed in committee yet and there's no indication they'll make it to a chamber vote before the 60-day session is scheduled to end in early May. House Speaker Danny Perez, R-Miami, previously said he was open to discussing E-Verify legislation and moving the bills "through the committee process like any other bill." Politico Pro / Compare HB 1033 and HB 955

'Hands Free Driving' Bill Gets a Thumbs Up - A Senate committee on Wednesday approved legislation (SB 1318) by Sen. Erin Grall, R-Vero Beach, that aims to go a step further than current law in preventing distracted driving. Current law prohibits only texting while driving. The measure approved Wednesday would make it illegal to hold any mobile device. "This bill is about hands free driving and moving from a ban on texting while driving to a hands-free driving law," creating a "bright line" that would clarify enforcement and save lives, said Grall during debate on the measure in the Senate Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development Appropriations Committee. The bill was approved unanimously and heads to the Senate Rules Committee. An identical companion measure HB 501 by Rep. Allison Tant, D-Tallahassee, is now in the House Governmental Operations Committee. Florida Politics

Proposal to Raise Florida Highway Speed Limits Advances in House: A plan to increase speed limits on Florida highways is accelerating in the Legislature, with the House incorporating it into a broader transportation bill (HB 567), sponsored by Sarasota Republican Rep. Fiona McFarland. The House Economic Infrastructure Subcommittee unanimously approved the amended measure, which, along with its Senate counterpart (SB 462) by Indian Rocks Beach Republican Sen. Nick DiCeglie, would raise the maximum speed limit on interstates and Florida's Turnpike from 70 mph to 75 mph. The legislation also directs the state Department of Transportation to increase speed limits on four-lane divided highways in rural areas from 65 mph to 70 mph, while other roads with 60 mph limits could see an increase to 65 mph if deemed "safe and advisable" by the agency, among other things. Both bills have two more committee stops. A similar proposal was vetoed in 2014 by then-Gov. Rick Scott, who cited concerns from law enforcement. News Service Florida / Compare HB 567 and SB 462

Florida's Insurance Risk Modeling Center Aims to Improve Alternatives for Floridians: Bills to move the state's insurance risk modeling program from Florida International University to Florida State University are moving through the Legislature. The Senate Appropriations Committee on Higher Education on Monday approved SB 114, sponsored by Sen. Jay Trumbull, R-Panama City, to create the Florida Center for Excellence in Insurance and Risk Management at FSU. Earlier this month HB 1097 by Rep. Jennifer Canady, R-Lakeland was approved by the House Insurance and Banking Subcommittee. Committee debate in the House centered on research independence, the impacts on student academics and workforce initiatives, and on continued collaboration among Florida's public universities. The new center is expected to develop, evaluate, and disseminate research related to the state's insurance market, assist the Legislature by recommending insurance and risk management alternatives for Floridians while identifying emerging issues in the insurance market. Both bills seek to transfer the Public Hurricane Loss Projection Model, owned by the Office of Insurance Regulation from FIU to FSU, but cooperation with other universities and private entities is required in the bill. Moreover, $5 million in recurring and $1.5 million in nonrecurring general revenue would be appropriated to FSU for establishing and maintaining the center. "The high cost of homeowners insurance is top of mind for Florida families," said Trumbull. "Reforms passed by the Legislature have helped stabilize the property insurance market, and we are finally starting to see some companies lower rates. This bill will keep up the positive momentum, creating the premier academic insurance research center in the nation to identify mitigation and resiliency steps Floridians can take to fortify their homes." Insurance Journal / Senate Press Release

“Randy Fine’s controversial bills stall as he leaves Legislature fighting” via Jeffrey Schweers of the Orlando Sentinel — Sen. Fine, the bellicose Republican from Melbourne Beach, is wrapping up his last days in the Legislature this week in his own indomitable fashion, trading barbs with the public, clashing with fellow lawmakers and watching several of his more controversial bills stall or die. The former gaming executive told one speaker who was wearing a keffiyeh, a traditional Middle Eastern headdress, around his shoulders, to “enjoy your terrorist rag” as the man stepped away from the podium. Fine, who was running the Committee meeting, threatened to clear the room when audience members complained about his comment. “I’m the Chairman. I can say what I want. If you don’t like it you can leave,” Fine told the crowd. The moment was classic Fine, a politician who may be the Florida Legislature’s brashest and most combative. He has regularly insulted opponents and threatened spending cuts — once against Special Olympics Florida — during the eight years he served in the House and the four he spent in the Senate. In anger, Fine also memorably suggested shutting down the University of Central Florida, the state’s largest university.

Business …

Florida Gas Prices Dip Below $3, Hitting Lowest Point Since 2023: The state's average gas price has dropped below $3 a gallon for the first time this year, according to AAA — the auto club group. As of Sunday, the statewide average was $2.97 per gallon — the lowest daily average since December 2023 and two cents cheaper than this year's previous low. Prices are down 13 cents from a week ago, 13 cents from a month ago, and 55 cents compared to this time last year. Filling a standard 15-gallon gas tank now costs an average of $44.55, saving drivers $8.25 compared to a year ago. "Low oil prices and strong gasoline production numbers have helped push gas prices to lows not seen in more than a year," said AAA spokesperson Mark Jenkins. AAA Press Release / News Service Florida

“Tax revenue could drop by 10 percent amid turmoil at IRS” via Jacob Bogage of The Washington Post — Senior tax officials are bracing for a sharp drop in revenue collected this Spring, as an increasing number of individuals and businesses spurn filing their taxes or attempt to skip paying balances owed to the Internal Revenue Service. Treasury Department and IRS officials are predicting a decrease of more than 10 percent in tax receipts by the April 15 deadline compared with 2024, said the people, who spoke anonymously to share nonpublic data. That would amount to over $500 billion in lost federal revenue; the IRS collected $5.1 trillion last year. For context, the U.S. government spent $825 billion on the Defense Department in fiscal 2024. “The idea of doing that in one year, it’s hard to grapple with how meaningful of a shift that represents,” said Natasha Sarin, President of the Yale Budget Lab and a senior Biden administration tax official.

The industry group Florida Realtors last week released a report that showed the statewide median sales price for single-family existing homes in February was $415,000. Here were median prices in the state’s metropolitan statistical areas:

— Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island: $925,000

— Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach: $640,000

— North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton: $483,688

— Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford: $440,000

— Port St. Lucie: $429,500

— Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin: $417,950

— Cape Coral-Fort Myers: $416,000

— Sebastian-Vero Beach: $412,500

— Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater: $399,990

— Jacksonville: $397,000

— Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville: $370,000

— The Villages: $369,995

— Gainesville: $356,495

— Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach: $350,000

— Panama City: $350,000

— Punta Gorda: $349,000

— Lakeland-Winter Haven: $330,000

— Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent: $325,000

— Tallahassee: $325,000

— Ocala: $290,000

— Homosassa Springs: $285,000

— Sebring: $279,475

“'Volatile hurricanes' in AccuWeather 2025 hurricane season predictions. What Florida can expect” via Cheryl McCloud of USA Today Network — AccuWeather predicts 2025 could be a year with "volatile hurricanes" and warns storms could rapidly intensify shortly before landfall. That's not welcome news for anyone who has been affected by hurricanes. "Texas, Louisiana, western Florida, North Carolina and Atlantic Canada face a higher-than-average risk of direct impacts this year," forecasters warned. "AccuWeather is forecasting near to above the historical average number of named storms, hurricanes, major hurricanes, accumulated cyclone energy and direct impacts to the United States," said AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva.

Campaigns & Elections …

Jolly Considering Run for Governor: Former Republican Congressman David Jolly told Politico he's considering running for governor as a Democrat. Jolly represented a Tampa Bay area district in Congress and left the GOP in 2018 to register with no party affiliation. Jolly has been a frequent TV critic of Gov. Ron DeSantis and President Donald Trump. Politico Playbook

"Erika Donalds says Casey DeSantis ‘teased a run’ for Governor, but Byron Donalds can better deal with Florida issues" via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Donalds, wife of Republican gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds, acknowledged First Lady DeSantis as a potential opponent in the upcoming race. While Mrs. DeSantis hasn't confirmed her intentions, Erika Donalds suggested her husband is better equipped to handle Florida's "insurance crisis." She highlighted Byron Donalds' financial background and experience in the state House. The insurance issue is a top concern for Florida voters. Polling data presents mixed results, with some surveys showing Casey DeSantis with higher favorability while others show Byron Donalds leading in a head-to-head matchup.

Save the date — "Donalds will hold fundraiser at Mar-a-Lago" via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Donalds, already endorsed by Trump for Governor, will host a fundraiser at Mar-a-Lago on May 1. The event, featuring a poolside reception and dinner, aims to raise significant funds for Donalds’ campaign. The event signals strong support, including a notable $1 million contribution from U-Line CEO Richard Uihlein, who previously supported DeSantis. The fundraiser comes amid speculation about a potential Casey DeSantis run. Trump preemptively endorsed Donalds in February, solidifying his position in the Republican landscape.

"Congressional candidate Randy Fine attacked in new political ad" via Greg Fox of WESH — A new political ad from Josh Weil attacks his opponent, Fine, as a "corrupt millionaire and career politician." The ad cites Fine's $30 million net worth and his service in the legislature since 2016, deeming the latter claim false. The ad highlights an ongoing ethics investigation into Fine for allegedly threatening to withhold Special Olympics funding. It also references a video of Fine hiding under a desk and his contempt conviction for flipping off a judge, leading to anger management. The ad further claims Fine tried to cut Special Olympics funding and insulted a School Board member. All claims are based on documented actions.

"Elon Musk super PAC pours last-minute money into Special Florida Elections" via Caroline Vakil of The Hill — Musk's super PAC, America PAC, is investing in Florida's upcoming Special House Elections. Roughly $10,200 is allocated for texting services for Republican candidates Jimmy Patronis (CD 1) and Fine (CD 6). Patronis, facing Democrat Gay Valimont, aims to replace Matt Gaetz, while Fine, against Democrat Josh Weil, seeks to succeed Waltz. Despite Democrats outraising GOP opponents, both seats are Republican-leaning, though the races might be closer than expected. Musk's involvement underscores efforts to bridge the fundraising gap between parties. He's also active in Wisconsin's Supreme Court race, joining liberal donors in a high-stakes battle for court control.

Poll shows CD 6 Special Election within margin of error” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — A survey done for Florida Politics by St. Pete Polls ahead of the Tuesday Special Election to succeed former U.S. Rep. Waltz shows Fine winning just over 48% of the vote; Weil received just over 44%. The poll of 403 likely voters in CD 6 was conducted on March 22. Pollsters report a 4.9% margin of error, greater than Fine’s lead. And among those polled who said they already voted, more than half supported the Democrat. Weil leads 51% to 43% among those whose decision has already been made via a mail-in ballot or in-person early voting. According to the survey, about 38% of likely voters have already cast their ballots in the race.

Trump to hold tele-rallies for Randy Fine, Jimmy Patronis” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Trump will host remote rallies for congressional candidates Fine and Patronis ahead of Special Elections. Both rallies will take place Thursday evening. Patronis announced an event at 5 p.m. Central Standard Time. The Panama City Republican encouraged voters to call (833) 305-1698 to listen in. Shortly after, a rally for Fine will kick off at 6:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. Those interested can call (833) 380-0653 to listen. “This is your chance to hear directly from me and President Trump what is at stake this election and why we need your vote on April 1st,” Fine, a Palm Bay Republican, posted on X. “See you tonight.”

“Sister vs. brother: LaVon Bracy Davis, Randolph Bracy both running for state Senate” via Steven Lemongello of the Orlando Sentinel — Sibling rivalry will be front and center in the race to succeed the late Geraldine Thompson in the Senate. Rep. Bracy Davis officially kicked off her campaign to run for the seat left vacant by Thompson’s death on Feb. 13. In doing so, she will take on her brother, former Sen. Bracy, who fought a bitter and personal Democratic Primary against Thompson last year, losing to her in the November election. Bracy announced his own candidacy for the Senate seat the day after Thompson died, posting on Instagram from Italy’s Amalfi Coast that he planned to run again.

Health Care Related News Articles

—“Surgical smoke protections blow through another Senate stop” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics

Say hello to FSU Health” via Christine Sexton of Florida Phoenix — Florida State University has been given the green light by the state Board of Governors to issue $414 million in bonds to finance a new hospital in Panama City Beach as it brands its presence in Northwest Florida as FSU Health. The FSU Board of Trustees approved the proposal hours before the Board of Governors gave final approval. Project planning and design have not been completed. Still, BOG documents show that the project, including design, construction, and equipment for a five-floor, 340,000-square-foot facility, is projected to total $328 million. The Panama City Beach hospital will initially open with 80 beds and four operating rooms to support orthopedic surgery, otolaryngology, gynecology, and general surgery. FSU Health in Panama City’s footprint will eventually be able to accommodate up to 600 beds. The hospital will be built on an undeveloped 18-acre parcel of land donated by The St. Joe Co. adjacent to a new urgent care facility that Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare built called TMH Physician Partners and Urgent Care facility.

 

"Escambia County may backtrack on pledged $2 million to Baptist Hospital demolition" via Jim Little of the Pensacola News-Journal — Escambia County is reconsidering its $2 million pledge for the demolition of Pensacola's old Baptist Hospital, citing general fund constraints. Commissioners raised concerns, noting existing county responsibilities and limited discretionary funds. Mayor D.C. Reeves argues the demolition is a regional project and requests the county contribute an amount equivalent to the landfill tipping fees revenue it will generate. Reeves emphasized that the city wouldn’t profit from the land because it would be used as a subsidy for affordable housing. The Escambia County Commission will discuss the issue further at its April 3 meeting.

 

FSU Secures Approval for $413.9M Bond to Build Panama City Beach Hospital: The Florida Board of Governors has approved Florida State University's plan to issue $413.9 million in bonds to fund the construction of a new hospital in Panama City Beach, set to open by late 2027. The facility will be part of a larger health care campus aimed at expanding medical services in the growing region. Board member Alan Levine, a past hospital executive and former secretary of the state Agency for Health Care Administration, praised the project, saying it positions FSU as a "market leader" while enhancing training opportunities for its medical and health programs. The St. Joe Co., a major landowner in Northwest Florida, will donate land for the hospital, which will initially open with 80 beds and plans for future expansion. Construction is expected to begin this summer, with operations run by Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare under the FSU Health brand. The bonds, approved Wednesday, will be repaid over 30 years. News Service Florida / Florida Phoenix

 

Unpaid hospital bills of undocumented immigrants: $37M in Lee County, $6M in Collier County” via Liz Freeman of Naples Daily News — Lee County is among Florida counties facing one of the highest tabs in the state, $37.4 million last year, for care provided by its hospitals to undocumented immigrants that went unpaid, according to a new state report. Collier County’s amount of uncompensated care for undocumented immigrants was $6.2 million in 2024. In Lee, the state report says there was a total of 117,265 admissions in 2024, of which 1,242 patients indicated they were not lawful in the U.S. for 1.06% of the total admissions; 4,649 patients did not answer the question.

 

Rare Genetic Disease Measure Advances: The Senate Education Postsecondary Committee on Monday advanced legislation (SB 1356) aimed at establishing a newborn genetic screening program at Florida State University's pediatric rare diseases unit. The bill, by Lakeland Republican Sen. Colleen Burton, is intended to create a statewide research network to improve the diagnosis and treatment of rare genetic disorders. Committee members voiced strong support for the bill's focus on early detection and collaboration. The House version of the legislation (HB 907) has also begun moving, clearing the first of four assigned committee stops last week. House bill sponsor Rep. Adam Anderson, R-Palm Harbor, has been an advocate for rare disease research since his son died from the rare fatal genetic condition Tay-Sachs disease at four years old. There are over 7,000 known rare diseases affecting 350 million people worldwide. Both measures have several more committee stops.

 

Medical Malpractice Measure Headed to Final Senate Panel - The Senate Appropriations Committee on Health and Human Services advanced a bill on Tuesday that would repeal a state statute prohibiting adult children and parents of adult children from collecting medical negligence and noneconomic damages. Florida is the only state that differentiates medical malpractice from other types of wrongful deaths, which is referred to by some as the "free-kill" law. Under current state law, if medical negligence leads to the death of an adult aged 26 or older with no spouse or minor children, no one has the right to sue. The 35-year-old provision only allows medical malpractice claims by surviving spouses or minor children. The proposal (SB 734), sponsored by Jacksonville Republican Sen. Clay Yarborough, does not include caps on non-economic damages like a similar measure filed by Yarborough last year. It passed on an 8-2 vote, with Republican Sens. Gayle Harrell and Colleen Burton voting in opposition. Supporters argued the legislative change would provide parity in Florida law, promote justice and accountability, and reflect the value of life. Critics, however, raised concerns about increasing medical malpractice insurance rates, exacerbating the state's physician shortage, and allowing estranged immediate family members to frivolously go after doctors. The proposal now heads to its third and final committee stop before the floor, the Senate Rules Committee. A similar House companion (HB 6017), brought by Fort Pierce Republican Rep. Dana Trabulsy and Orlando Democrat Rep. Johanna López, is slated to be considered in its second and final committee of reference on Thursday: the House Judiciary Committee. Other lawmakers have filed similar legislation, including SB 616 by Fort Myers Republican Sen. Jonathan Martin and Zephyrhills Republican Sen. Danny Burgess, but it has yet to be introduced in committee. Florida Politics / News Service Florida

 

More Medicaid Oversight Considered: Lawmakers this year are considering boosting legislative oversight of Medicaid, the program that pays for health care for many of the state's poor people and for longterm care for many others. The interest in increasing scrutiny of the program comes as the Florida regulator overseeing the $33 billion program says it misspent $160 million. Politico Pro

 

“Naples-based Landmark Hospitals files bankruptcy; pandemic partly to blame” via Liz Freeman of Naples Daily News — Naples-based Landmark Hospitals has filed bankruptcy proceedings yet says it has no plans to close its long-term care hospitals in Georgia, South Carolina and Missouri, according to court filings. Landmark is most known in Southwest Florida for building and operating a 50-bed hospital in North Naples on the south side of Immokalee Road off Goodlette-Frank Road, completed in 2015. Since 2021, Physicians Regional Healthcare System has had a long-term lease for the 50-bed property at 1285 Creekside Blvd., converted it to a general acute care hospital, and renamed it Physicians Regional North. The company said the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact … initially with a dramatic increase in patient volume. However, that came with substantial increases in labor costs and other inflationary costs while reimbursement from the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid plateaued.

 

Lawmakers Advance Bills to Expand Insulin Administration in Group Homes: State lawmakers this week gave the OK to legislation aimed at allowing trained caregivers and family members to administer insulin shots to residents of group homes licensed by the state Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD). The proposals (SB 1736 and HB 1567), sponsored by Vero Beach Republican Sen. Erin Grall and Lake Placid Rep. Kaylee Tuck, would permit direct-support professionals or a client's relative to give insulin injections to diabetic individuals with developmental disabilities living in APD-licensed group homes. Under current law, only licensed nurses are authorized to administer insulin in these settings, often forcing families to seek costly alternatives or place loved ones in nursing homes. The Senate measure unanimously cleared the Senate Children, Families, and Elder Affairs Committee and the similar House companion also received unanimous support in the House Human Services Subcommittee earlier this week. Compare SB 1736 and HB 1567

 

Nurse Anesthetist, Juvenile Diabetes, 'Baby Box' Bills All Ready for House Floor - The House Health & Human Services Committee on Monday advanced a proposal on an 18-7 vote to allow certified registered nurse anesthetists, or CRNAs, in Florida to practice autonomously, removing a requirement for written supervisory agreements with physicians. The bill (HB 649) by Cape Coral Republican Rep. Mike Giallombardo, drew pushback from some members concerned with quality of care and liability, while supporters noted that removing physician supervision aligns with 43 other states, addresses workforce gaps, and would increase access to care. Proponents, like the Florida Association of Nurse Anesthetists (FANA), argue the current system leads to a shortage of nurses in the state, especially in rural areas. More than 6,400 CRNAs currently practice in Florida, according to FANA. Also reported favorably with strong bipartisan support by the committee was a measure to create a Type 1 Diabetes early warning and detection program. The proposal (HB 723), by Tallahassee Democrat Rep. Allison Tant, would require the Florida Department of Health and school districts to collaborate on informational materials to provide to parents and guardians of school children to make them aware of signs and symptoms of Type 1 diabetes. Another measure aimed at expanding safe surrender options for newborns received unanimous support from the same committee. That legislation (HB 791), sponsored by Eustis Republican Rep. Nan Cobb, would authorize the installation of newborn safety devices in hospitals, emergency medical services stations, and fire departments. The devices, referred to as "baby boxes" and built into facility walls, would allow parents to safely and anonymously surrender infants, reducing the risk of abandonment in unsafe locations. The bill also removes penalties for parents who surrender their babies through these designated sites. "Current law neither prohibits nor authorizes infant safety devices and it also does not make them mandatory," Cobb said. "Since 2000, approximately 414 newborns have surrendered at a safe haven in Florida. In that time, 65 infants are known to have been unsafely abandoned, of which 32 survived and unfortunately 33 did not." Florida's Safe Haven law has been on the books for more than two decades. All three pieces of legislation are now ready to be considered on the House floor. Florida Politics

 

FSU Seeks Approval for $414M Bond to Build Panama City Beach Hospital: Florida State University is moving forward with plans to build a hospital in Panama City Beach, aiming to expand research opportunities and address the needs of an aging population. This week, the university is expected to seek approval to issue $413.9 million in bonds for the project. The Florida State University Board of Trustees will review the proposal on Wednesday, followed by a vote from the state university system's Board of Governors later that day. If approved, the funding will support the development of the new medical facility. News Service Florida

 

House to Consider Medical Malpractice Measure, Up in Final Senate Committee - The Florida House is set to take up a bill Wednesday on the floor that would repeal a state statute prohibiting adult children and parents of adult children from collecting medical negligence and non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. Florida is the only state that differentiates medical malpractice from other types of wrongful deaths, which is referred to by some as the "free-kill" law. Under current state law, if medical negligence leads to the death of an adult aged 25 or older with no spouse or minor children, no one has the right to sue. The 35-year-old provision only allows medical malpractice claims by surviving spouses or minor children. The bipartisan proposal (HB 6017), sponsored by Fort Pierce Republican Rep. Dana Trabulsy and Orlando Democrat Rep. Johanna López, is on the House special order calendar after successfully clearing two committees. Supporters, including plaintiffs' attorneys and AARP, argue that the change is necessary to hold medical providers accountable. Opponents, including health care and business groups, warn it could drive up malpractice insurance costs and exacerbate physician shortages. A similar Senate companion (SB 734), filed by Jacksonville Republican Sen. Clay Yarborough, is scheduled to be taken up on Wednesday as well by its third and final committee, the Senate Rules Committee. Compare HB 6017 and SB 734 / News Service Florida / LobbyTools Calendar

 

House Budget Committee Proposes Cuts to 'Live Healthy' Loan Program - A House budget panel is seeking to eliminate a decade-long, $500 million health innovation loan program and the council overseeing its implementation that was approved by the Legislature last year. The House Health Care Budget Committee this week filed a proposed budget conforming bill (HCB1) that outlines changes to the state Medicaid program ahead of the proposed health care budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26, slated to start July 1. Among the cuts is the repeal of a law spearheaded by Sen. Gayle Harrell, R-Stuart, as part of former Senate President Kathleen Passidomo's "Live Healthy" initiative, which aimed to strengthen Florida's health care workforce and infrastructure. The program, established in 2024 under SB 7018, was designed to provide $50 million annually in low-interest loans through the Department of Health to fund projects improving health care delivery, workforce efficiency, and patient outcomes. The initiative sought to reduce emergency department visits and overall costs while maintaining quality care. The legislation also emphasized fostering innovation by encouraging collaboration between businesses, entrepreneurs, and health care stakeholders. The now-targeted Health Care Innovation Council, which was created to oversee the loan program, includes top state officials such as the lieutenant governor, the state surgeon general, and other agency heads. The council has met twice since its formation, with its last meeting held on Nov. 19, according to the conforming bill's staff analysis. Additionally, the House budget bill proposes modifications to the Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program, requiring consideration of specialty children's hospitals when awarding research grants. But it stops short of the broader cancer funding changes sought by the Gov. Ron DeSantis' administration. The panel is scheduled to meet Thursday morning. Florida Phoenix

 

Bill to Expand Medicaid Coverage for Mammograms Advances in Senate: The Senate Banking and Insurance Committee unanimously advanced a proposal to expand Medicaid coverage for mammograms and breast cancer screenings in Florida. The legislation (SB 1578), sponsored by Jacksonville Democrat Sen. Tracie Davis, would require Medicaid to cover mammograms and supplemental breast cancer screenings for women as young as 25. Current law only provides for annual mammograms for women aged 35 to 40. The measure also seeks to increase coverage for women between 40 and 50, allowing them to receive annual mammograms instead of every two years. The state Agency for Health Care Administration would need to receive federal approval to implement the changes. It has two more committee stops to clear. A similar House companion (HB 187) has been filed by Tampa Democrat Rep. Dianne Hart and awaits consideration in its first of three committees. Another bill (SB 158), brought by Boca Raton Democrat Sen. Lori Berman, would eliminate cost-sharing requirements for follow-up breast cancer exams and is pending introduction on the Senate floor after passing both committees of reference. That measure's House version (HB 141) has yet to be heard in committee. Florida Politics / Compare SB 1578 and HB 187 / Compare SB 158 and HB 141