Florida’s New Wave of Laws Reshape Schools, Parks, and Public Safety

Starting July 1, 2025, over 100 new laws will take effect across Florida, touching everything from student safety to animal rights and environmental protection.

In education, SB 1514 mandates public schools (K–8) to implement allergy emergency plans, including EpiPens and trained staff at all student events. SB 1070, known as the “Second Chance Act,” requires student-athletes to undergo medical evaluations and EKGs before participating in school sports, with exceptions for medical or religious reasons. HB 597 empowers students with diabetes to carry their supplies and manage their condition at school, with schools allowed to keep glucagon on hand for emergencies.

HB 259 designates August 21 as “Fentanyl Awareness Day,” while SB 994 makes driver’s ed mandatory for teens aged 15–17 to get a learner’s permit.

Environmental and recreational laws also make waves. HB 209, the “State Parks Preservation Act,” bans development projects like golf courses in state parks, preserving their conservation purpose. SB 1388, the “Boater Freedom Act,” restricts law enforcement from stopping vessels without cause and promotes new safety decals for compliant boaters.

The “Florida Farm Bill” (SB 700) makes Florida only the second state to ban fluoride in public water, a controversial decision aimed at limiting additives despite longstanding public health support.

Florida’s identity gets a symbolic shift too—HB 549 changes all government references of “Gulf of Mexico” to “Gulf of America,” following a federal order.

From health and safety to environmental protection and cultural statements, these sweeping reforms signal a distinct new chapter for Florida’s legislative landscape.