The 2026 Legislative Session has officially concluded, but one critical responsibility remains unfinished: passing the state budget.
For the second consecutive year, the Legislature was unable to complete its work within the 60-day Session. Lawmakers are now expected to return in the coming weeks to finalize a budget before the start of the new fiscal year on July 1. Last year, the budget was not passed until June, and a similar timeline appears increasingly likely.
The House and Senate remain at an impasse, with differences still unresolved as negotiations continue alongside the Governor’s office. We are closely monitoring developments and will keep you informed as progress is made.
Election Watch
In a striking turn of events, Republican State Representative Josie Tomkow fell short in the special election to replace Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins.
Senator-elect Brian Nathan will now represent the Hillsborough-based district and is expected to face Tomkow again in November, setting up a closely watched rematch.
Due to Florida’s resign-to-run law, Rep. Tomkow vacated her House seat to pursue the Senate race. In the resulting special election in Polk County, Hilary Holley secured a decisive victory and will serve out the remainder of the term before running again in November.
In another open-seat race, Emily Gregory won election to a Palm Beach County House seat previously held by Rep. Mike Caruso, who was appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis to serve as Clerk of Courts.
Our Priority Legislation
We are pleased to report a major win for the RV industry.
Senate Bill 118, sponsored by Senator Keith Truenow and Representative Danny Nix, was approved by the Legislature and will be sent to the Governor. This legislation addresses burdensome local government special assessment practices and ensures consistency across jurisdictions.
Specifically, the bill clarifies that special assessments based on square footage cannot exceed the maximum size of a recreational vehicle. At the same time, it preserves local governments’ authority to set assessment rates and utilize alternative methodologies where appropriate. This is a significant step forward in protecting RV owners and businesses from disproportionate costs.
Additionally, House Bill 399 included important provisions benefiting the industry. This bill was approved by Governor DeSantis on March 27th. Through our advocacy efforts, language was added to expand placement flexibility for residential manufactured buildings within RV parks.
The bill allows manufactured homes built to the Florida Building Code standard to be placed on any lot within a recreational vehicle park—not just those designated for mobile homes. It also requires local governments to allow off-site constructed homes anywhere single-family homes are permitted and to treat them the same as site-built housing. Any local ordinance that restricts or discriminates against these homes is now preempted.
Looking Ahead
We are closely monitoring when the Governor and legislative leaders will reach agreement on returning to address the state budget, as well as other major issues like redistricting and property tax reform.
In the meantime, we are actively engaging with new candidates running for office across the state. These relationships are critical to ensuring the RV industry continues to have a strong voice in Tallahassee.
Your support of the PAC makes this work possible. With your help, we can continue building relationships, advocating effectively, and promoting the vital role our industry plays in Florida’s economy.
Andres Malave
Director, Government Relations
D: 850.214.5145
amalave@joneswalker.com