2024 Florida Legislature

Both laws take effect July 1st.

Champions of short-term rentals say they provide extra income for homeowners and boost tourism, while critics complain that noise, trash, and traffic woes from a revolving cast of visitors negatively transform neighborhoods.

Florida’s 2024-2025 fiscal year will arrive next week with a fresh $116.5 billion budget and nearly 200 new laws.

The bill about bears provides a sort of stand-your-ground defense for people who shoot bears to defend themselves or property.

The move to save about 200 jobs comes after Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed money that pays for “legislative support services.” It was cut from the budget that starts July 1st.

In April, OSHA officials drafted an initial framework that unanimously recommended moving forward with talks over federal rules to protect workers.

The legislative session was highlighted by "Live Healthy" and other health projects. When the $116.5 billion budget was unveiled, it included big numbers for expectant moms, kids, mental health and cancer research.

The bill would have banned the sale of products containing what is known as delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol and limited the amount of delta-9 THC.

A new law makes Florida the first state to permit cesarean sections in "advanced birth centers." Some health experts are leery even though many hospitals have closed maternity wards.

Florida, Alabama and Iowa have already enacted restrictions. Backers say they want to protect farmers and consumers. But those within the industry say their products must meet rigorous government safety tests.

The Legislature sent at least 27 healthcare bills to the governor.

The measure stems from a federal law that allowed the designation of rural emergency hospitals and made them eligible for Medicare payments.