TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida, a prominent Republican figure, typically wields significant influence within the state’s capital. His agenda has historically received little resistance from the GOP-majority Legislature, facilitating his rise to national attention. However, the latest legislative session unveiled a different narrative.
In what signifies a departure from the norm, DeSantis’ penultimate legislative session in Tallahassee was riddled with disagreements among Republican lawmakers. Party leaders publicly clashed, showcasing a rift when compared to previous harmonious collaborations. Throughout the 60-day session, even DeSantis’ allies questioned initiatives, including a notable investigation into a program championed by his wife, Casey DeSantis. Furthermore, suspicions of a criminal conspiracy involving a key ally surfaced. As a culmination, there were moves to check the powers of his administration.
Despite the GOP holding a supermajority, they hit an unexpected snag: failing to pass the constitutionally required state budget before the session’s conclusion. Endless negotiations stretched late into the night before a preliminary budget framework emerged just shy of the deadline. Legislators will reconvene for an extended session through June 6 to finalize the spending plan, addressing the upcoming fiscal year starting July 1.
Within the GOP trifecta of Tallahassee, differing ideologies over tax policies impeded progress on the state budget. The House proposed a budget of $113 billion, while the Senate suggested $117.4 billion, with DeSantis advocating for a $115.6 billion plan. The contention largely revolved around a permanent .75% sales tax reduction suggested by House Speaker Daniel Perez, which Senate President Ben Albritton opposed. Despite prolonged dialogues, a consensus on a budget framework featuring $2.8 billion in tax cuts was eventually reached. Meanwhile, DeSantis pushed for the abolition of property taxes, a change needing voter approval.
Amidst these financial debates, the legislative body managed to push through 205 bills and resolutions out of over 1,900 submissions. Landmark legislation addressed the strict criteria for ballot initiatives, relief for condominium owners post-Surfside condo disaster, policies banning fluoride in water, and new methods for the death penalty’s execution. However, several proposals endorsed by DeSantis, including reduced firearm purchase age and campus carry laws, failed to gain traction. Initiatives to relax child labor regulations and mandate E-Verify for employers also met their demise.
A particular controversy arose over legislation perceived as limiting gubernatorial power. DeSantis’ veto powers could encounter resistance, with legislators possessing the ability to overturn vetoes if two-thirds of both chambers agree. A striking example of this manifested when an override on certain line-item vetoes from the previous budget occurred earlier in the year. Additionally, legislative decisions placed constraints on state park developments amidst backlash over proposed recreational facility expansions. Significantly, new guidelines were passed to bar public funds from backing political advertising tied to constitutional amendments, reflecting pushback against past aggressive campaigns spearheaded by the governor’s office.
In an unexpected twist, inquiries were launched into the Hope Florida initiative, largely driven by first lady Casey DeSantis. Scrutiny heightened following revelations of a $10 million donation linked to a Medicaid settlement being channeled to political endeavors by groups tied to the governor. The investigative efforts were suspended as principal figures declined to testify, but legislative oversight may persist pending further document releases.
Conducting legislative business outside the regular session carries considerable financial implications, costing taxpayers roughly $50,000 daily. The legislature’s return on May 12 will coincide with efforts to finalize outstanding matters by June 6, according to arrangements made by legislative leadership.