After weeks of tense negotiations, Florida lawmakers reached a landmark budget agreement on June 16, finalizing a 2025–26 spending plan that reflects conservative fiscal priorities: tax relief, leaner government, and strategic investment in public safety and disaster preparedness.
The deal includes a sweeping $1.3 billion in tax cuts — with over $900 million coming from the elimination of the business rent tax, a long-standing burden on small enterprises. Consumers will benefit too: the back-to-school sales tax holiday is now permanent, and essential items like batteries, smoke detectors, and life jackets are tax-free year-round.
Despite the cuts, the budget sets aside $750 million in reserves and funds targeted raises for teachers, law enforcement, and judges. “We’re proving you can shrink government and still take care of the people who serve it,” said House budget chief Lawrence McClure.
The budget also includes $560 million in “sprinkle list” projects, including cancer research and nursing home support — a nod to compassionate conservatism. With federal disaster aid in question, Florida is also investing $23 million in its State Guard, signaling a pivot toward state-led emergency response.
