Upcoming special-session priorities include Medical Freedom protections for doctors, an Artificial Intelligence Bill of Rights to safeguard name/image/LIX, and a Homestead Tax Relief amendment on the November ballot.

Reported by the Associated Press.

The state had previously pursued a 2050 100% renewable energy target, with Leon County backing 100% clean energy and declaring a climate emergency in 2023.

Sponsors emphasize accountability and preservation of American ideals, with lawmakers arguing net-zero policies would hinder growth.

Florida’s governor signed a package of laws prohibiting local governments from funding or promoting diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, arguing DEI is an ideological construct that can harm disfavored groups, beginning with white males.

Democratic lawmakers say the DEI ban is dangerously broad, could be unconstitutional, and would let residents sue local governments for DEI violations while officials could be removed from office for noncompliance.

HB 1217 targets net-zero and other carbon-reduction policies by local governments, labeling them an anti-carbon tax and barring green initiatives that raise costs; it takes effect on July 1.

The law will take effect on July 1, giving cities and counties time to review and adjust existing policies.

The governor frames accountability as a path to merit-based evaluation, rather than socially engineered outcomes, and argues it will ensure compliance.

Enforcement measures are paired with penalties for officials who do not comply, a point supporters say ensures accountability and prevents misuse of taxpayer funds.

County programs like Created Equal and OEV minority business initiatives may be reviewed for compliance, potentially impacting funding and operations.

There is a balancing debate between enforcing anti-discrimination accountability and guarding constitutional rights.