Florida Legislative Update

Lets cover some of the positive bills  we’ll be following this session:

  HB 985/ SB 1244, sponsored by Rep. Eskamani and Sen. Torres

We are still facing a housing crisis and after last year's legislative session, it’s clear we need robust tenant protections in Florida. HB 985/SB 1244 would create a statewide comprehensive Tenant Bill of Rights that includes: increased notice of rent increases, right to counsel, and much more.

 Harry T. and Harriette V. Moore Voting Rights Act, sponsored by Rep. Bracy Davis and Sen. Thompson

Voting rights are the cornerstone of any functioning democracy. Floridians deserve voting access that is simple and accessible to all eligible voters. The Moore’s Voting Rights Act would provide same-day and automatic registration, increased language access, permanent vote-by-mail, protections against racist vote dilution, and Election Day as a holiday.

 HB 1525/SB 904, sponsored by Rep. Joseph and Sen. Polsky

Florida voters made it clear when WE passed Amendment 4 to restore voting rights to returning citizens: democratic engagement is a right. HB 1525/SB 904 would hold the Department of Elections accountable for providing timely responses to an individual request of voter eligibility as well as providing certifications to those deemed eligible to vote. In the case where a timely response is not provided, an individual who registers to vote is not held criminally responsible. 

 HB 1631/SB 1606, sponsored by Rep. Campbell and Sen. Torres

For years, Florida Rising organizers and members have demanded clean air and waterways in their communities. With Florida being the trash incineration capital of the U.S., we must hold the multi-million dollar operating companies accountable and ensure proper standards are upheld. This bill would create 24- hour air quality monitoring, move funding for incinerators to the Department of Environmental Protection, and require funding be withheld if EPA standards of air quality are not met.

 SB 1564, sponsored by Sen. Torres

Housing is a human right and no child should be forced to live on the streets - nor should pregnant parents. Florida has one of the fastest evictions in the country, with only 5 days between the notice and the eviction. This bill creates a common-sense requirement that landlords must provide a 90-day  notice to pregnant tenants and those with children before evicting them.

It’s going to take every one of us to make these proposed bills a reality here in Florida. We must flood the inboxes and voicemails of our legislators to build support behind these bills. Tell a friend, tell a neighbor, and let’s mobilize!