This week marks the last week of interim committee meetings prior to the January 13^th start of the 2026 Session.  The political landscape heading into the 2026 Florida Legislative Session is shaping up to be contentious defined by continued tension between the Governor and House.

The overall tone is high-stakes and ideologically driven. As Governor DeSantis enters his final legislative session, he is looking to deliver a win on the elimination of property taxes.  House leadership has held several meetings to explore the elimination or massive reduction of property taxes (specifically "non-school" taxes). Several joint resolutions (e.g., HJR 201, HJR 203) have already been filed in the House to place this on the 2026 ballot.  The Governor has yet to release a plan for property tax elimination.

Unlike recent years flush with federal stimulus cash, the 2026 outlook is leaner. State economists predict a leveling off or downward trend in revenue, raising fears of a future deficit if spending isn't cut. The House has been particularly focused on reducing recurring spending.

Senate President Ben Albritton has continued his focus on a "Rural Renaissance" (SB 250). His priority is directing resources (broadband, healthcare, roads) to Florida’s rural heartland and protecting the citrus industry.

This week The Florida Senate Regulated Industries Committee met yesterday, Tuesday, December 9, 2025, during the pre-session committee weeks for the upcoming 2026 Legislative Session.

The meeting focused heavily on utility regulation and energy policy. The most significant development was a reform bill regarding the Public Service Commission (PSC) that could impact utility rates for all Florida ratepayers, including commercial businesses.

The committee passed SB 126 (Sen. Gaetz), which originally sought to revise the membership and transparency of the Public Service Commission. The bill was amended to explicitly require the PSC to consider "affordability" when setting utility rates.

 Historically, the PSC has used the standard of "fair, just, and reasonable." Notably, the version passed by the Committee dropped a proposed cap on the utility’s return on equity.

The committee also heard and passed SB 200, Solar Decommissioning. The bill was passed without debate however the bill sponsor, Sen. Bradley, highlighted in her presentation of the bill the importance of county control and involvement in the decommissioning of solar projects. 

Summary of Bills Passed this Week (All voted favorably 9-0)