Legislative Update 2025.10

October marks the start of committee meetings for the 2026 Legislative Session and the installation of new leaders in both chambers. On October 14, Representative Sam Garrison (Clay County) will become Speaker-designate, and Senator Jim Boyd (Manatee County) will become Senate President-designate. Until they officially take the gavels in 2027, their priority will be maintaining Republican majorities in the House and Senate. 

2026 Legislative Session Committee Meetings

Preparations for the 2026 session are underway, with committee meetings running from October through December. These meetings shape the policies that will impact Florida’s RV industry and the broader economy. Stay tuned for any new committee announcements expected soon.

Committee Week Schedule

• October 6–10
• October 13–17
• November 3–7
• November 17–21
• December 1–5
• December 8–12

Special Elections and Open Seats

While Garrison and Boyd prepare for November of 2026, there are still plenty of races to round out the current legislative body. The September 30 primaries brought clarity to key races. Former State Representative Ralph Massullo won the Republican nomination for the Senate seat vacated by CFO Blaise Ingoglia, while Maria Zack secured the nomination to succeed the late Rep. Joe Cassello in Palm Beach County. Both advance to the December 9 general election, with Zack facing Delray Beach Vice Mayor Rob Long.

Two additional vacancies will also trigger elections: Rep. Mike Caruso resigned after being appointed Palm Beach County Clerk of Court, and Rep. John Temple stepped down to become president of Lake-Sumter State College. Election dates for their successors have not yet been set.

Business Rent Tax Elimination

Starting October 1, Florida’s business rent tax, a 57-year-old state sales tax on commercial leases, will be eliminated as part of a June tax package. Previously reduced to 2% in June 2024, the tax’s removal is expected to save businesses $1.15 billion this fiscal year, rising to $1.53 billion next year. This change, alongside nearly 30 new laws effective October 1, marks a significant win for business groups after a decade of advocacy.

Federal Government Shutdown Looms

As of this publication, the federal government faces a potential shutdown, with funding having lapsed at midnight on September 30. Non-essential operations are at risk, though Congress and the White House are in last-minute talks for a continuing resolution. Agencies like the Department of Defense and Homeland Security have contingency plans, with furloughs possible if no deal is reached. We’ll keep you updated as this situation evolves.

Stay Connected

With election season officially ramping up and new House and Senate leaders being selected, we are grateful for your continued support. Your engagement strengthens our ability to advocate successfully for you and the RV industry.

Our team remains committed to keeping you informed on developments in Tallahassee and beyond. We look forward to advocating for policies that strengthen Florida’s RV industry as we approach the 2026 session. Reach out with any questions or to connect at upcoming events!