Florida Governor DeSantis Signs Five New Laws, Blocks Farm Housing Bill
In a recent development in the state of Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis took decisive action on Friday by signing five new bills into law while also vetoing a separate bill that had reached his desk. The vetoed bill, known as SB 1082, had aimed to prevent local governments from impeding housing construction for specific agricultural workers. Governor DeSantis expressed concerns in his veto letter that the bill’s terms could potentially be exploited to house migrants who are residing in the state unlawfully.
The Governor’s veto decision on SB 1082 came alongside the signing of a majority of bills on Friday, with over 180 new laws set to take effect on Monday, from this Legislative Session. Among the bills signed by Governor DeSantis, House Bill 1347 stands out as a key amendment to state statutes regarding the Florida Consumer Finance Act. This law prohibits lenders from making consumer finance loans unless authorized by the Act, with specific guidelines on interest rates based on the principal amount borrowed.
Furthermore, Senate Bill 736 introduces various changes to programs under the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, including provisions for reduced-dimension license plates, options for disabled veterans to choose specific license plates, and clarifications on fees for reissuance of certificates of title. Similarly, Senate Bill 770 expands the scope of projects eligible for financing through the Property Assessed Clean Energy program, allowing for a broader range of property improvements related to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Additionally, Senate Bill 1600 focuses on interstate mobility by requiring licensure by endorsement for applicants meeting certain criteria and expediting the licensing process for healthcare professionals. Lastly, Senate Bill 7040 ratifies revisions to stormwater rules by the Department of Environmental Protection, aiming to streamline inspection procedures, enhance stormwater management systems, and establish treatment standards for redevelopment projects in areas with impaired water quality.
Overall, Governor Ron DeSantis’ recent legislative actions reflect a comprehensive approach to addressing key issues impacting various sectors in the state of Florida. With a mix of new laws set to take effect on July 1, these measures are poised to contribute to the state’s ongoing efforts towards economic growth, environmental sustainability, and public safety.
