Governor DeSantis signs sweeping education and labor union bills

May 1, 2026 - 18:45

Governor Ron DeSantis has signed two major pieces of legislation, HB 1279 and SB 1296, marking a significant shift in Florida's approach to education and labor unions. The new laws introduce sweeping changes that will affect how schools operate and how public employee unions function across the state.

Under HB 1279, the state will implement new standards for classroom instruction, including restrictions on how certain topics related to race and gender can be discussed in schools. The bill also expands parental rights, giving families more direct oversight over curriculum and school library materials. Supporters argue the law protects children from indoctrination and ensures transparency in education. Critics, however, say it will chill open discussion and limit teachers' ability to address complex subjects.

SB 1296 targets public sector unions with new requirements for recertification. The bill mandates that unions representing teachers, police, and other government workers must prove they have a certain percentage of active members to remain certified. It also bans automatic payroll deduction of union dues, forcing workers to opt in each year rather than opt out. Union leaders have called the measure an attack on collective bargaining rights, while the governor's office says it empowers individual workers and reduces the influence of union leadership.

Both bills passed along party lines in the Florida Legislature. The governor signed them during a ceremony in the state capital, surrounded by lawmakers and education advocates. The laws take effect on July 1, 2024.