Englewood Chamber Legislative Update
| Florida Legislative Update – Week 4 of the 2026 Session The Florida Legislature is now entering Week 4 of its 60-day Legislative Session, and several key issues continue to take center stage. A survey conducted by the Florida Chamber of Commerce said the business community is focused on four primary areas of concern: – Property Tax – Insurance – Permitting – Workforce Housing Property Tax There has been considerable discussion around proposals to eliminate or significantly reduce property taxes. At this point in the session, however, these measures do not appear to have enough momentum to pass. However, three property tax proposals continue advancing in the House: – HJR 203, related to the phased-out elimination of non-school property tax for homesteads by Representative Monique Miller. – HJR 213, related to the modification of limitations on property assessment increases by Representative Griffitts continues to advance through committees.HJR 213 is the only one of the House’s original eight proposals that also benefits non-homestead properties, such as renters and local businesses, by capping the annual increase in the assessed value of non-homestead properties by 15 percent over three years. – Both HJR 203 and HJR 213 are ready for the Floor. Also ready for the Floor is a third property tax proposal which provides an additional $200,000 exemption for homestead properties that have property insurance. While the concept continues to generate attention, it is unlikely that and of these proposals will be passed by the full legislature during this session. We will continue to monitor any developments and provide updates should the status change. Click Here to Read More Insurance Insurance reform remains an active and evolving issue. Notably, there is movement toward rolling back previous lawsuit reforms that have contributed to stabilizing the insurance market and helping to lower insurance rates. Any changes in this area could have far-reaching consequences for affordability and market stability. We are closely watching this legislation as it progresses. Thank you to Representative Danny Nix for voting against HB1553. Click Here to Read More Permitting Lawmakers continue to examine ways to streamline and improve the permitting process. Efforts in this area are aimed at reducing delays, increasing efficiency, and supporting responsible growth throughout the state. Discussions are ongoing, and we anticipate additional clarity as bills move through committee hearings. Workforce Housing Workforce housing remains a top priority as Florida grapples with housing affordability challenges. Legislators are exploring strategies to encourage the development of attainable housing for essential workers, including potential incentives and regulatory adjustments. Click Here to Read More Elimination of Local Business Taxes HB 103, related to local business taxes by Representative Adam Botana, has moved through two of its three committees and the Senate companion, SB 122 by Senator Keith Truenow, has moved through one. These bills eliminate the local business tax, which would alleviate a financial burden on small and local businesses across Florida, increasing the ability of job creators to be able to reinvest in their business, employees and communities and enhancing Florida’s economic competitiveness. Creating Regulatory Certainty for Local Businesses HB 105, related to local government enforcement actions by Representative Robbie Brackett, has moved through two of its three committees in back to back weeks. The bill helps provide regulatory certainty by preventing local governments from taking arbitrary or unreasonable actions against businesses and creates an efficient resolution process for local businesses to challenge such actions. The Senate companion is still waiting to be heard. Click Here to Read More As the session continues, we will track these issues closely and share timely updates on legislation that could impact our communities and stakeholders. Please stay tuned for further developments as the 60-day session progresses. Florida News – Ben Albritton returns to Tallahassee after medical scare, will “finish the Session strong” – Florida Chamber economic summit projects optimism for this year – Florida will start offering drivers license exams in English only – Florida Senate passes Rural Renaissance plan – E-Verify expansions pass Florida House with Senate fate up in the air – Florida’s aerial highway could take off in 2027Florida’s high school graduation rate hits record Campaign School Florida needs good leaders who want to serve their local communities and run for public office. From local boards, city councils and county officials to the State Legislature, there is a growing need to ensure candidates running for office understand the issues facing Florida and our economic future. The online schools and training will provide a briefing on emerging local and state issues, teach attendees on what local opportunities are available for appointed or elected positions, guidance on how to prepare to run for office in the future and provide training on how to run winning campaigns. Click Here to Register! |