As the 2025 Florida Legislative Session crosses the critical 50-day mark, the window for legislative action is rapidly closing, particularly for bills that have not cleared at least one committee of reference. Per legislative rules, most committees are barred from meeting after Day 50 (April 22), effectively halting movement on hundreds of proposals. While the legislature is scheduled to adjourn sine die on Friday, May 2, that outcome is far from certain as budget negotiations remain in flux.

Legislative Landscape Snapshot

Here’s where things stand at a glance:

• General bills filed: 1,697
• Bills still in play: 575 (33.9%)
• Bills not heard in committee: 803 (47.3%)
• Bills passed both chambers: 8
• Signed into law: 10

HCAF Priorities Defy the Odds, Still Moving Forward

Amid mounting procedural roadblocks and stalled legislation, HCAF’s top-priority bills are among the few still advancing — underscoring the strength of our advocacy and the urgency of our mission.

House Bill 1353, sponsored by Representative Gallop Franklin (D-Tallahassee), passed the Florida House of Representatives unanimously (115-0) on April 16. Its Senate companion, Senate Bill 1412, is scheduled for a final vote tomorrow, April 23. This high-impact legislation modernizes outdated home health agency operational statutes and strengthens the Excellence in Home Health Program — bringing long-overdue reforms to the industry.

Our second major priority, focused on improving the Home Health Aide for Medically Fragile Children (Family Home Health Aide) Program, is also surging ahead. Senate Bill 1156 passed its final committee stop unanimously today, while its companion, House Bill 1529, is poised for a full House vote tomorrow. These reforms are essential to protecting access, enhancing oversight, and ensuring sustainability for one of Florida’s most vulnerable populations.

With just a fraction of all filed bills still in play, HCAF’s legislation is among the most successful of the session.

Budget Stalemate Puts Adjournment in Question

The House and Senate remain $4.4 billion apart on their proposed budgets, with disagreements over spending priorities and tax cuts. As of this week, budget allocations — the framework determining how much funding each section of the budget receives — had yet to be finalized.

Senate Budget Chair Ed Hooper (R-Palm Harbor) signaled a delay may be inevitable, stating, “I assume [lawmakers] will not be out of town by May 2,” citing the required 72-hour cooling-off period before a final budget vote and unresolved tensions between legislative chambers and the Governor’s office.

Confirmation in Limbo: AHCA Secretary Unlikely to Be Confirmed

High-level agency appointments are facing new obstacles as controversy surrounding the Hope Florida Foundation casts a shadow over the confirmation prospects of Shevaun Harris, Secretary of the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA), and Taylor Hatch, Secretary of the Department of Children and Families (DCF).

Senate leaders have indicated there is not enough time remaining in the session to complete the confirmation process. As a result, both officials may need to be reappointed by the Governor following the legislature’s 30-day deadline to act on confirmations. If reappointed — as is expected — they may continue serving in their current roles and be reconsidered during the 2026 session.

Stay Engaged: Track Progress & Fuel the Mission

HCAF is leading the charge at the Capitol, but your involvement makes all the difference. You can follow key legislation in real time through our members-only bill tracker to stay informed and engaged.

Additionally, please consider supporting the Home Care Political Action Committee (PAC). Your contribution, whether individual or corporate, directly helps elect lawmakers who understand and prioritize the needs of Florida’s home care community. With fundraising set to resume immediately after session adjourns, now is the time to act.

Support the PAC today — click here to contribute online.