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As the Florida Legislature moved through the fifth week of the 2026 session, committees continued advancing policy proposals while the overall pace of legislation remained measured, with lawmakers reaching the midpoint of session work and many priority bills still moving through early committee stops. Much of the activity this week reflected continued policy development rather than final passage, as education, health, and children’s policy proposals advanced through committee review.
In education and early learning, committee discussions continued to focus on system structure and access to services, particularly within early childhood programs. Lawmakers advanced proposals aimed at modifying childcare regulation and strengthening early learning infrastructure, including legislation designed to streamline licensing requirements and create new funding mechanisms to support early learning initiatives. Supporters framed these efforts as an attempt to expand access while reducing administrative burdens on providers, while committee debate centered on maintaining health, safety, and accountability standards as regulatory changes move forward.
Health care committees continued to examine affordability and access issues, with broader legislative priorities this session including workforce flexibility and implementation of federal health reforms at the state level. Ongoing committee conversations also reflected continued concern over children’s health coverage and implementation challenges related to prior policy changes, underscoring persistent gaps between legislative intent and program rollout. These discussions signal that health policy this session remains closely tied to cost containment, workforce shortages, and access to care, particularly for children and low-income families.
Child welfare and children’s services policy remained active in committee agendas during week five. Lawmakers continued advancing proposals focused on community-based service models and coordinated supports for children and families, including measures expanding children’s initiatives intended to address disparities through localized service networks. Committee discussion emphasized prevention, cross-agency collaboration, and improving outcomes for children in historically underserved communities, reflecting ongoing legislative interest in upstream investments designed to reduce long-term system involvement.
In juvenile justice and related policy areas, committee attention remained tied to broader public safety and youth services conversations rather than major standalone legislation moving during the week. Discussions continued around system accountability, service coordination, and the intersection of behavioral health and juvenile justice involvement, consistent with the session’s broader emphasis on public safety and child well-being outcomes. While fewer juvenile justice bills advanced compared to education and health topics, the policy space remains active as lawmakers prepare for later committee hearings and budget negotiations.
Overall, week five reflected a transition point in the session, with committees refining proposals and positioning priority bills for further movement in the coming weeks. Education and early learning measures continued advancing steadily, health care discussions remained focused on affordability and access, and child welfare policy-maintained momentum through initiatives aimed at prevention and community-based supports.
Additionally, the House of Representatives dropped its initial budget proposal totaling $113.6 billion on Thursday. The Senate dropped its initial budget proposal on Friday totaling $115 billion, signaling that there will be significant budget negotiations between the two chambers before the end of the 60-day Regular Legislative Session.
Until next time!
Sincerely,
The Florida Alliance of Children’s Councils & Trusts
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