Florida’s 2026 Legislative Session Opens: What Real Estate and Business Professionals Need to Know
Florida’s 2026 legislative session is officially underway, and lawmakers are already rolling out proposals that could significantly reshape the state’s real estate market, insurance sector, education system, and even its approach to artificial intelligence. With over a hundred new bills introduced, this year’s session is shaping up to be one of the most influential in recent memory—especially for homeowners, business owners, and licensed professionals statewide.
Property Insurance Reform Takes Center Stage
During a recent news conference in Broward County, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida has finally reached a turning point in its ongoing property insurance crisis. After years of steep premium increases, the governor emphasized that the state’s massive insurance overhaul is beginning to deliver what residents have long demanded: lower insurance bills.
DeSantis highlighted that the reforms could not only reduce property insurance costs but may also lead to lower auto insurance premiums across Florida.
For real estate professionals, investors, and property managers, these changes could influence buyer confidence, affordability, and long‑term market stability. Students at Cameron Academy—especially those studying real estate, mortgage, or insurance licensing—will want to keep a close eye on this shifting regulatory landscape.
A Push to Eliminate Property Taxes
In a bold move during his final State of the State address, Governor DeSantis revealed a cornerstone of his legacy agenda: eliminating property taxes for Florida homeowners. Backed by Florida’s explosive economic growth and nearly $10 billion in tax relief over seven years, the governor affirmed the state’s commitment to remaining one of the most taxpayer‑friendly regions in the country.
Should this proposal gain traction, real estate agents and brokers could see major shifts in property values, investor interest, and homebuyer motivation.
Education Reforms and Attendance Alerts
Among this year’s proposed bills is a statewide attendance alert system requiring school boards to notify parents and administrators when students hit certain absence milestones. If parents cannot provide valid explanations, schools may escalate the issue.
This bill could significantly affect educators, school administrators, and professionals renewing or pursuing education‑related licenses through programs such as those offered by Cameron Academy.
The AI Bill of Rights and Florida’s Digital Future
Another key agenda item is the proposed AI Bill of Rights, designed to safeguard Floridians as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into businesses, classrooms, and everyday life. This legislation could influence training standards, compliance guidelines, and ethical expectations across numerous professional industries.
Redistricting on the Horizon
Though the regular session spans 60 days, Governor DeSantis has already scheduled a special session in April to address redistricting Florida’s congressional maps. He aims to ensure that new districts accurately reflect Florida’s rapidly increasing population, while Republican lawmakers work to maintain their party’s influence in the U.S. House.
As these legislative debates unfold, professionals across Florida—from real estate and insurance to education and technology—will undoubtedly feel the ripple effects. Cameron Academy remains committed to providing the licensing education, professional development, and industry insights needed to stay competitive in a rapidly changing marketplace.
Stay tuned—this year’s session is poised to shape Florida’s professional landscape for years to come.
More Articles
Getting licensed or staying ahead in your career can be a journey—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Grab your favorite coffee or tea, take a moment to relax, and browse through our articles. Whether you’re just starting out or renewing your expertise, we’ve got tips, insights, and advice to keep you moving forward. Here’s to your success—one sip and one step at a time!
After nearly 20 years under uniquely harsh lending rules, Florida may finally see its condo market freed from a 25% down payment requirement imposed only on the state. Industry leaders say Fannie Mae could announce changes as early as December—potentially restoring the standard 10% down payment used everywhere else in the country. Experts believe the shift would boost maintenance funding, improve affordability, and stabilize Florida’s condo market after years of strain.
Phoenix’s commercial real estate market is shaking off years of uncertainty as broker optimism hits its highest level since interest rates began climbing. The latest ASU Commercial Broker Sentiment Index soared to 62.7, signaling strong confidence across multifamily, retail, office, and capital markets. With population growth accelerating, interest rates easing, and AI boosting industry efficiency, Phoenix is positioning itself for a powerful run into 2026—offering meaningful opportunities for both new and seasoned real estate professionals.
Michigan’s House Rules Committee heard testimony on a proposal that would let licensed professionals complete all required continuing education online. Supporters say the change would modernize outdated rules, reduce costs, and improve access for rural and busy workers. The state licensing department backs the measure, and lawmakers noted it could reshape CE options across industries from real estate to insurance and healthcare.
Florida homeowners are now paying an average of $5,838 per year for insurance — nearly $3,000 above the national average — making it one of the most expensive states in the country. As premiums continue to triple for some residents, many are being forced into tough decisions, from delaying home improvements to dropping coverage altogether. With more than 40% of claims closed with no payment and lawmakers pushing for aggressive reforms, the crisis is reshaping Florida’s housing market and placing growing pressure on real estate, mortgage, and insurance professionals statewide.
Griffin Funding has elevated John Jones to Senior Vice President of Growth and EOS Integrator, marking a major step in the company’s long-term expansion strategy. Already a key operational leader since April 2025, Jones will now drive performance optimization, market expansion, and leadership development as the lender pursues an ambitious goal of reaching $3 billion in annual non-QM loan volume by 2030. His promotion underscores Griffin Funding’s commitment to scaling strategically while strengthening its position in the fast-growing non-QM space.
Despite recent Federal Reserve rate cuts, commercial real estate remains frozen. Long‑term Treasury yields continue to climb, keeping borrowing costs high and preventing the relief investors expected. With nearly $1 trillion in commercial loans coming due, refinancing at today’s elevated rates is squeezing owners, slowing transactions, and creating a widening gap between buyers and sellers. For patient, well‑capitalized investors, this period of recalibration may offer some of the strongest opportunities in years.
