Lawmakers reconvene in Tallahassee to resolve a missing state budget and decide funding for housing programs, environmental projects and tax relief.
Source: Original report
Florida lawmakers returned to the Capitol for a special session to finish a state budget that was unresolved when the regular 2026 legislative session ended. The session runs through May 29, giving the House and Senate a limited window to reconcile spending differences before the new fiscal year begins July 1.
What’s still on the table
Several funding decisions important to real estate professionals remain unsettled. Key items include:
- Hometown Heroes Housing Program: The two chambers proposed different increases — the Senate offered $75 million while the House favored $50 million.
- My Safe Florida Home and My Safe Florida Condo: Both budget plans would carry forward unused balances into 2026–27, including $444 million for My Safe Florida Home and $30 million for My Safe Florida Condo.
- Housing trust funds: Both chambers proposed fully funding SHIP at $165.7 million and SAIL at $70.8 million.
- Water quality and environmental work: Budget proposals include investments for Everglades restoration, springs protection, beach and inlet management, flood and sea-level rise planning, wastewater grants and related projects.
- Tax relief: Lawmakers are expected to revisit tax-relief proposals during the special session.
Bills already acted on by the governor
Governor Ron DeSantis continued signing measures passed earlier in 2026. As of May 11, he had signed 72 of 237 bills; 30 were awaiting action and 134 had not yet been formally presented.
Two signed bills of particular relevance to property owners and real estate practitioners:
- HB 589: This measure makes it easier to move permitting for onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems forward by allowing local governments to accept proof that a construction permit application has been filed when a building permit is requested. The change aims to reduce delays for properties dependent on septic systems.
- HB 1417: Language related to septic disclosures that was seen as confusing was removed after stakeholder input, following work by industry groups to make the law more practical and reduce potential litigation.
Why the final budget matters
The outcome of the special session will influence funding for homeownership programs, property-hardening initiatives, affordable housing development and infrastructure tied to Florida’s continued growth. These allocations will shape local planning and resilience efforts across the state.
With a tight timeline before the July 1 fiscal year start, lawmakers face pressure to reach agreement on these priorities while balancing broader tax and spending considerations.
