BILLS THAT PASSED THE 2016 LEGISLATIVE SESSION
To date, Governor Rick Scott has signed 206 bills. To see a list of these bills go here. We have outlined a few items of interest that passed this year.
DEATH BENEFITS Payment of death benefits will be made to the surviving spouse or children of first responders killed in the line of duty, regardless of the type of retirement plan in which the first responder is enrolled.
STYROFOAM PROHIBITION Both chambers approved a measure which would prohibit local governments form banning Styrofoam products. Rules that are already in effect will be able to continue.
GROCERY STORE FINANCING A pilot program to ensure urban neighborhoods and rural towns have access to fresh, healthy and affordable food will be launched by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Underserved communities will be the primary focus.
FRESH PRODUCE The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can now be used to purchase fresh produce at farmers markets, flea markets and other open-air markets, thanks to legislation approved by the Governor on March 10th.
HONEY Tupelo honey has been declared the official honey of Florida.
PARK ADMISSION Counties and municipalities must now provide discounts on public park entrance fees for military members, veterans and their families.
HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL Florida will create a Holocaust Memorial in the Capitol Complex.
LEGISLATURE START DATE Upon approval by the Governor, the start date of the 2018 Regular Legislative Session will be January 9, 2018.
2016 LEGISLATIVELY PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS
Renewable Energy One of the legislative proposals for the 2016 ballot is the exemption of solar panels and other renewable energy devices from tangible personal property taxes.
First-Responders Property tax breaks for first-responders who become disabled in the line of duty will also appear on the ballot.
Senior Citizen Tax Break Voters will consider whether the value of homes owned by senior citizens should be locked in place.