Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signs first new laws of 2026

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ORLANDO, Fla. – After the latest Legislative session ended last week, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed off on the first new laws of the year on Thursday.
There are close to 200 bills that have been passed by lawmakers this year, though DeSantis only signed two into law so far.
Both laws deal with protecting Florida’s coasts, tackling environmental concerns that lawmakers wanted to address.
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“My administration has delivered historic investments to protect Florida’s 1,300 miles of coastline,” DeSantis said. “Today, I signed legislation to preserve the Terra Ceia Bay and to build on our work to promote coastal resiliency and water quality statewide. We are committed to protecting Florida’s environment for future generations to enjoy.”
The bills that DeSantis signed are as follows:
SB 302 — Coastal Resiliency
Senate Bill 302 prohibits any dredging or filling of submerged lands at the Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve, with some exceptions provided for public safety and environmental protection.

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This law is also expected to streamline the permitting process for nature-based methods aimed at improving coastal resiliency, helping to accelerate restoration timelines.
SB 302 is set to take effect on July 1.
HB 1417 — Department of Environmental Protection
House Bill 1417 repeals the Environmental Regulation Commission, which is expected to streamline rulemaking for environmental protection.
This law also requires erosion and sediment control plans for the construction of solar facilities to include stormwater best management practices.
HB 1417 is set to take effect on July 1.
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