Entering the Final Week of Regular Session
As we close out Week 7 and prepare to enter the final week of “regular” Session, the pace in Tallahassee continues to accelerate.
As we move into what is supposed to be the final week, unless something miraculous happens today, we are likely setting the stage for extra innings on the budget. While that can create some uncertainty, it also opens the door for certain items to possibly see a little more daylight as negotiations continue.
Both chambers have now moved into budget conference, where final negotiations will determine what ultimately makes it into the final appropriations bill. This is a critical phase of the process — and your engagement right now truly matters.
‘As it currently stands, the task over the next week (or weeks) is to close a $1.4 billion gap between the Senate’s $115 billion proposal and the House’s leaner $113.6 billion budget. There is also the $117.4 billion proposal that Governor Ron DeSantis introduced in December, but we would not recommend adding any more variables to the equation — unless you purchased travel insurance.’
Boys State / Girls State Funding – Action Still Needed
We still need your phone calls regarding Boys State and Girls State funding.
Our voice still matters. Emails and phone calls remain one of the most effective forms of advocacy, and your outreach directly influences the process.
When contacting legislators about this funding, please reference the following appropriations:
- Senate Appropriation 2602 — Tom Leek
• House Appropriation 2799 — Michelle Salzman
Referencing these numbers helps legislative staff quickly identify the request during conference negotiations and ensure your message is routed appropriately.
Charitable Gaming Legislation
While the momentum of the charitable fundraising efforts has slowed, the legislation targeting charitable gaming between the chambers is not currently aligned. However, there is still time for these measures to merge. We are actively working with bill sponsors to come to an agreeable landing and position ourselves as favorably as possible before the final days.
Washington, D.C. Advocacy Success
Now let me take a moment to brag on our recent Washington, D.C. trip.
We had a delegation of 22 members representing The American Legion, Sons of The American Legion, and the Auxiliary travel to Washington to advocate on behalf of our organization and our veterans.
During that trip, our team personally met all of Florida’s 28 congressional offices. That level of engagement is a tremendous accomplishment and a strong reflection of the dedication within our Department. These meetings ensured that the voice of Florida’s veterans was heard directly by those representing us at the federal level.
I want to personally thank everyone who took the time to travel, participate, and represent our organization with professionalism and purpose.
Looking Ahead
While I may watch the weatherman every morning, I still do my own research — and I cannot say with certainty how this year will conclude. However, I do have a prediction.
Be prepared for extra innings again this year.
As always, thank you for staying engaged, making the calls, and continuing to advocate for our veterans, our youth programs, and the communities we proudly serve.
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