Florida Lawmakers Prioritize Affordability in Upcoming Legislative Session

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As Florida’s legislators gear up for the 2026 session, set to commence in just about a month, there’s a hefty agenda awaiting them. From the intricacies of property taxes to the contentious topics of redistricting, vaccine mandates, and gun reform, it’s clear that the months ahead are packed with complex issues. The looming question on everyone’s mind is whether lawmakers will manage to wrap up on schedule next year.

Reflecting on the previous session, which extended 45 days beyond its intended conclusion, there is a concerted hope among lawmakers this time to adjourn, or “Sine Die,” on time. However, the road to that goal is fraught with challenges, with the pressing matter of affordability taking center stage as 2026 beckons.

In the Senate, President Ben Albritton has turned his focus to the ongoing debate over property taxes. The challenge lies in finding a delicate balance between offering relief to homeowners and ensuring that local services remain adequately funded. “Florida is a very diverse state, and the local economies are equally varied,” Albritton noted. “Any adjustments to the state’s property tax structure will inevitably affect different regions in distinct ways.”

Amidst these discussions, new legislation encompassing changes to healthcare and pet insurance is set to take effect on January 1, adding another layer of complexity as Florida’s lawmakers prepare for the upcoming session.

Senators in the Tampa Bay area like Sen. Nick DiCeglie (R-Indian Rocks Beach) say the idea to reduce or eliminate property taxes sounds nice, but any harm to local services is a no go.

“I love the concept, but I want to make sure that if someone calls 911, for example, that those first responders have the ability to get to that location in three minutes or less,” DiCeglie said.

As for Senate and House Democrats, they’d like to tackle affordability in their own way, introducing three proposals that aim to address property insurance, lower premium costs, cut corrupt government spending, and stay far away from “culture wars.”

“Where did the money from Alligator Alcatraz go? Or the migrant flights that DeSantis ordered? Or the outrageous per-student spending at New College?” said State Rep. Fentrice Driskell (D-Tampa). “Let’s stop the waste. Refocus our spending on things like schools, on roads or let’s put it back in the pockets of the families who need it most.”

HB 319-SB 366: Property Insurance Interstate Compact