Equal Ground Action Fund <info@equal-ground.com> | Mon, Mar 3, 2025 |
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2025 LEGISLATIVE SESSION SESSION UNDERWAY Tomorrow, March 4, 2025, marks the official start of the 2025 Florida Legislative Session. Over the next 60 days, lawmakers will convene in Tallahassee to craft policy and pass the state budget. As we prepare for what’s ahead, it’s important to reflect on last year’s session to understand the context in which this year’s decisions will be made. The 2024 Legislative Session, which ended on March 8, 2024, was yet another missed opportunity to address the real challenges facing Floridians. Instead of focusing on affordable housing, healthcare, meaningful criminal justice and insurance reform, and investments in public education, the Republican-controlled Legislature continued waging culture wars, attacking the history and experiences of marginalized communities, and using policy decisions to score political points. Efforts to protect our democracy, such as passing the Harry T. and Harriette V. Moore Florida Voting Rights Act, were ignored, leaving critical issues unresolved. Now, as the 2025 session begins, early signs indicate another tumultuous legislative cycle. Typically, around 3,000 bills are filed during a session, with most introduced during committee weeks. However, this year has been an exception, with just over 1,300 bills filed—an unusually low number that, combined with the three special sessions already held this year, suggests a challenging road ahead. Rather than debating a high volume of bills during committee weeks, lawmakers instead heard presentations from state agencies on proposed budgets, legislative priorities, and policy updates from previous sessions. With so much at stake for our communities, Equal Ground remains committed to keeping you informed throughout the session. We will provide weekly newsletters with updates, analysis, and links to critical resources so you can stay engaged. We encourage you to use this information as a tool to advocate for the policies that matter most to you. Stay tuned as we track key developments and provide insights on the legislative decisions that will shape Florida’s future. This year we have hired a full-time Legislative Associate to help us navigate the upcoming Legislative Session. Her name is Melanie Andrade Williams and she has over a decade of experience in public policy, politics, and local government. She brings a deep understanding of how to build strategic coalitions that empower organizations to transform the lives of vulnerable communities. She is excited to join the team and will be a valuable asset to Equal Ground an our partners throughout the legislative session. You can read more about her HERE. If you have any questions or insight, her email is melanie@equal-ground.com. WHAT TO EXPECT This year, Senate President Ben Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez have made it clear that they have their own vision and plans and do not intend to fall in line with the Governor's agenda. President Albritton has introduced a comprehensive plan addressing issues affecting rural communities, called the “Rural Renaissance.” This initiative, which includes infrastructure, economic development, and healthcare, is reflected in SB 110, filed by Senator Corey Simon. Meanwhile, Speaker Perez has emphasized the importance of budgeting, stating his intent to focus on fiscal responsibility to prevent the waste of taxpayer dollars. In line with this, House committees traditionally referred to as “appropriations” committees are now being called “budget” committees.We can also expect significant debate between the Senate and House on various issues, including immigration, housing, marijuana and hemp regulation, and election-related bills. HEAR DIRECTLY FROM LEGISLATORS & GOVERNOR You can hear directly from legislative leaders. Both the Senate and House will commence the legislative session with opening ceremonies in their respective chambers. During these sessions, the Speaker of the House will address the House, and the Senate President will address the Senate. Following these proceedings, both chambers will come together for a joint session of the legislature, where the Governor will deliver the State of the State address. You can watch it live on the Florida Channel at the following times:
PRIORITY BILLS Throughout session we will be monitoring several bills and providing updates and action alerts. Please note, all bills do not move at the same pace, it is possible that a bill does not have any action from one week to the next. HERE YOU CAN VIEW ALL OF OUR PRIORITY BILLS. HERE YOU CAN VIEW OTHER BILLS WE ARE TRACKING. SOME PRIORITY BILLS WE ARE TRACKING Restoration of Voting Rights Database (HB 0489) Rep Felicia Robinson (D)
Elections and State-issued Identification (HB 0831) Rep Jacques (R)
Elector Votes Required to Approve an Amendment to or a Revision of the State Constitution (SB 0864) Sen Carlos Smith (D)
Elections (HB 1205/SB 1414) Rep Persons-Mulicka (R) and Sen Ingoglia (R)
The Harry T and Harriette V Moore Florida Voting Rights Act (HB 1409/SB 1582) Rep Bracy Davis (D) and Sen Davis (D)
THIS WEEK IN COMMITTEE Bills we are monitoring that will be heard in committee or on the floor this week. Please note, this list is not complete and is subject to change without notice. Click HERE to view House schedule and HERE for Senate schedule. LET US PRAY: 2025 FLORIDA STATE LEGISLATIVE PRAYER CALL TONIGHT - MONDAY, MARCH 3RD AT 7PMEST Equal Ground, in partnership with the Florida State NAACP Religious Affairs Committee, invites all who believe in the power of prayer to join us as we come together to pray for the 2025 Florida State Legislative Session, our elected leaders, our state, our nation, and the world. Register to join us HERE. FLORIDA SOCIAL JUSTICE DEMOCRACY ROUNDTABLE As we prepare for the 2025 legislative session, Equal Ground is bringing together leading social justice and voting rights organizations for a powerful virtual roundtable discussion on March 4, 2025 on Equal Ground YouTube & Facebook. This conversation will provide a direct response to the Governor’s State of the State address and outline our collective vision for advancing social justice, protecting democracy, and shaping Florida’s policy landscape. Together we will break down the Governor’s legislative priorities, share bold strategies for fighting voter suppression and protecting our rights, and align on key advocacy efforts for the 2025 legislative session in pursuit of strengthening the movement for justice and equity in Florida. YOUTH TAKE THE LEAD Equal Ground is thrilled to invite you to an inspiring event designed to empower the next generation of leaders. Join our Take The Lead Youth Edition March 11th at 6:00pm as we discuss the power of youth engagement, political advocacy, and the legislative process in Florida. What to Expect: -Explore how laws are made and the different paths bills take to become law in our state. -Learn the power of youth voices in shaping policies that matter to them. -Understand why youth involvement is essential in building a strong and vibrant future for our community. This is a unique opportunity to gain valuable knowledge, connect with like-minded peers, and take your first steps toward making a real impact. Empower yourself, empower your community! We’d love to see you there! RSVP today to reserve your spot and be part of this exciting educational event. Click HERE to register BLACK POLITICAL EMPOWERMENT CALL Join us on Monday, March 17th, at 7 PM EST for the Florida Black Political Empowerment Monthly Call. This virtual gathering is a prime opportunity to stay informed about pressing issues affecting Black communities across Florida and to engage in collective action for meaningful change. Participants will receive updates on legislative developments, policy changes, and strategies to enhance Black political power in the state. Click HERE to register. JOIN US FOR EQUAL GROUND DAY AT THE CAPITOL Equal Ground and Clergy Day at the Capitol will take place on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 with an opening reception and training on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 in Tallahassee, FL. This will be an opportunity to commune with other community leaders, meet with legislators around important issues in person and participate in other advocacy activities. Buss Rider Locations:
If you are interested in attending, please complete the registration form found HERE. After your registration has been approved, you will receive additional details at a later date. For all questions please contact us at Info@equal-ground.com.
Tentative Event Agenda at a Glance March 25, 2025
March 26, 2025
Hotel Accommodations Hotel Indigo Tallahassee Tallahassee, FL, 32304, US (877) 846-3446 Click HERE to make reservation. Once you enter dates it will unlock the discounted rate of $199 per night.
Wyndham Hotel and Resort Tallahassee, FL 32301 (850) 299-2300 Code: “DAY AT THE CAPITAL COURTESY BLOCK” Discounted rate of $109 + tax per night. PLEASE NOTE, EACH PERSON/GROUP IS RESPONSIBLE FOR SECURING THEIR OWN HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS. THIS IS NOT AN EXPENSE OR SERVICE EQUAL GROUND WILL PROVIDE THREE SPECIAL SESSIONS BEFORE MARCH There have officially been three special sessions in 2025 alone, which put on full display the infighting of the Florida Republican Party, as well as their incessant need to try to garner President Donald Trump’s favor. The legislature convened for the first special session (2025A) on January 27th, as called by Governor DeSantis; but they immediately adjourned and called a special session of their own (2025B). In Special Session 2025A a slew of bills were filed by DeSantis allies, addressing immigration and the citizen's initiative process, but the bills were not heard. In the 2025B session the T.R.U.M.P. Act (Tackling and Reforming Unlawful Migration Policy Act) was passed. This bill, which varied from that of what DeSantis proposed, established that the Commissioner of Agriculture would serve as the State Immigration Officer (as opposed to someone appointed by the Governor). In the 3rd special session, Special Session 2025C, a so-called compromise between the Governor and Legislative leadership was reached at the behest of President Donald Trump. In this final version of the bill, the newly appointed State Immigration Office will not be under the Governor’s sole control nor under the Commissioner of Agriculture, but it will fall under a Council of 8 members appointed by the Governor, Attorney General, Chief Financial Officer, Commissioner of Agriculture, Speaker of the House and Senate President. The Speaker and President each must appoint two sheriffs while the Governor, Attorney General, Chief Financial Officer, and Commissioner of Agriculture all must appoint one police officer. The council must have their first meeting no later than April 1st. The newly created State Immigration Enforcement Board, however, will consist of the Governor and Cabinet; they will instead serve as the Chief immigration officer and assist ICE in the enforcement of Federal Immigration laws. In addition to creating this immigration enforcement panel, the new law also increases criminal penalties involving undocumented immigrants, and it stripped over 40,000 college students in Florida of their opportunity to attend college and to afford college. This is a huge concern for us as allies to immigrant communities and undocumented people in Florida. They are Floridians too and this change will lead to lower college enrollment which impacts Florida’s workforce and economy. BYRON DONALDS ENTERS GOVERNOR'S RACE WITH TRUMP ENDORSEMENT Rep. Byron Donalds has officially launched his campaign for Florida governor in 2026, positioning himself as a continuation of deep conservatism in a state that has elected Republican Governors since 1998. He entered the race after having secured an early endorsement from Donald Trump. Donalds has been a vocal opponent of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, arguing that they undermine meritocracy and create division. He has supported efforts to defund DEI programs, ban Critical Race Theory (CRT), and limit discussions on systemic racism in education and government institutions. His alignment with DeSantis’s restrictive policies has drawn criticism from civil rights organizations and Black leaders who see his stances as harmful to racial equity and progress. His past comments on Black history and race have been especially troubling. In June 2024, Donalds suggested that Black families were stronger during the Jim Crow era, a claim that was widely condemned as historically inaccurate and dismissive of the harsh realities of segregation and racial oppression. Additionally, he defended Trump’s racially charged comments about Vice President Kamala Harris, further fueling concerns about his positions on race and identity. With Trump’s endorsement and deep ties to Florida’s conservative movement, Donalds is expected to be a major contender in the Republican primary. As the 2026 election approaches, Florida voters must carefully consider the implications of electing a leader whose policies could further roll back progress on racial justice, voting rights, and educational equity. CONGRESSIONAL SPECIAL ELECTIONS No joke, Florida will have a special election on April 1, 2025, to fill vacancies in the 1st and 6th Congressional Districts. These vacancies arose due to recent resignations of their respective representatives. With the GOP holding a narrow 218-215 majority in the U.S. House, these vacancies temporarily weaken their control, potentially affecting key votes. Florida's 1st Congressional District: The seat became vacant following the resignation of Republican Matt Gaetz on November 13, 2024. Gaetz resigned from Congress after being nominated by President Donald Trump for Attorney General, but later withdrew from consideration following intense scrutiny over allegations he engaged in sexual misconduct, including paying multiple women for sex, illicit drug use, and involvement with a minor. Gaetz did not return to Congress, resulting in the need for a special election. The district, encompasses the westernmost area of the Florida panhandle—including Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, and parts of Walton County. The general election will feature Jimmy Patronis (Republican), Gay Valimont (Democrat), Stephen E. Broden (No Party Affiliation), and several write-in candidates. Florida's 6th Congressional District: This vacancy occurred when Republican Michael Waltz resigned on January 20, 2025, to assume the role of National Security Advisor in the Trump administration. Waltz's departure necessitated the scheduling of a special election to fill his congressional seat.
The district includes all or portions of Flagler, Lake, Marion, Putnam, St. Johns, and Volusia counties, covering areas such as Daytona Beach and surrounding communities. The general election candidates are Randy Fine (Republican), Joshua Weil (Democrat), Andrew Parrott (Libertarian), and Randall Terry (No Party Affiliation), and one write in candidate. FLORIDA CREATES DEPARTMENT OF GOVERNMENT EFFICIENCY Last week Governor DeSantis rolled out what he is calling the Florida Department of Governmental Efficiency (DOGE), that he credits Elon Musk and President Trump for giving him the inspiration for. Although Republicans have been in control in Florida politics for nearly 3 decades, he states that they can always do better at eliminating government bureaucracy and overspending. In a press conference last Monday he stated “It will eliminate redundant boards and commissions, review state university and college operations and spending, utilize artificial intelligence to further examine state agencies to uncover hidden waste, and even audit the spending habits of local entities to shine the light on waste and bloat". This new department will focus on local government, state agencies, and colleges and universities to look for expenditures considered wasteful and get rid of those programs, positions, etc. It will also abolish at least 70 state boards and commissions. This effort is insidious and an outright attack on Floridians who struggle to afford basic needs like housing, good jobs, and food, but continue to witness their Governor and elected leaders engage in extended political theatre instead of addressing these needs. With the legislative session exactly one week away, this is yet another preview of the misguided and out-of-step priorities of the administration. VOTER OUTREACH We're calling on YOU to join us for an important phone bank effort to help get our neighbors out to vote in Congressional Districts 1 & 6! This special election is a crucial moment for our communities, and your voice can make all the difference. We need dedicated volunteers to make calls and connect with voters across Florida, ensuring they are informed, motivated, and ready to vote! Get Involved Today: Sign up for a phone bank shift here: https://mobilize.us/s/DDVOSS Spread the word—invite your friends, family, and neighbors to help out! VOLUNTEER WITH US NEWS CORNER
RESOURCES
STAY SOCIALBe sure to follow Equal Ground on social media for legislative updates and content you can share.
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