Category: Florida Legislature
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New Florida Bill Seeks to Protect Medical Marijuana Patients’ Parental Rights
A new bill in Florida seeks to prevent family courts from restricting custody or visitation rights solely due to a parent’s legal medical marijuana use. It aims to ensure fair treatment for medical marijuana patients in custody disputes, aligning family law with state marijuana regulations while addressing safety concerns raised by critics.
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Florida’s 2026 Legislative Session Opens Amid Tax Battles, AI Push, and Budget Tensions
The 2026 Florida Legislative Session opens January 13, focusing on key issues like property tax relief, artificial intelligence regulation, and insurance reforms. Governor DeSantis prioritizes cutting property taxes amid rising housing costs. The session is expected to be contentious, with numerous bills proposed and debates on local government impacts and innovation concerns.
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Florida’s Tax Debate: What Low-Property-Tax Proposals Really Mean for Citizens
A Florida committee proposes significant property tax cuts for homeowners, aiming for benefits like increased homestead exemptions. However, critics warn these changes could mainly favor wealthier homeowners and risk essential public services funding, disproportionately affecting renters and vulnerable populations. Citizens are encouraged to engage in community discussions and seek targeted relief solutions.
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What Florida Residents Need to Know About the New Laws Taking Effect January 1
As Florida approaches the new year, a comprehensive set of laws will take effect on January 1, impacting various sectors including public safety, housing, transportation, and education. Key changes include increased penalties for retail theft and fentanyl trafficking, enhanced protections for homeowners, stricter school safety rules, and improved access to public records.
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DeSantis Moves to Redraw Florida’s Congressional Map in 2026 — A Direct Counter to California’s Mid-Decade Redistricting Push
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis plans a special legislative session in early 2026 to redraw congressional districts, potentially adding six GOP seats. This mid-decade redistricting follows a contentious 2022 map and aims to counter Democratic gains from California’s recent changes. Legal challenges and a Supreme Court ruling on race-based redistricting may impact outcomes.
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Florida’s Transparency Reckoning: Andrade’s Bill Demands Open Government Again
Florida’s Sunshine Law, once a benchmark for open government, faces challenges due to exemptions and weak enforcement. State Rep. Alex Andrade’s 2025 bill seeks to restore criminal penalties for violations, promoting accountability and transparency. The proposal resonates with conservatives advocating for government oversight, aiming to combat bureaucratic opacity and rebuild public trust.
Florida Bay News 