Overview
- Gov. Ron DeSantis signed SB 1296 and HB 1279 into law at a Fort Myers event, with both measures set to take effect July 1, 2026.
- SB 1296 requires a teachers’ or other public‑sector union to seek recertification when fewer than 60% of eligible workers pay dues, and it sets a 50% voter‑turnout bar for certification votes.
- The law ends automatic payroll deduction of union dues for most public employees and exempts first responders such as police, firefighters, and correctional officers from the new limits.
- New penalties raise the maximum fine to $30,000 for violating an injunction and double fines to $40,000 per day for illegal public‑employee strikes.
- HB 1279 adds teacher incentives, including $50 per student who passes a state advanced‑course exam and a $500 bonus for educators in D‑ or F‑rated schools if at least one student meets the mark, and it gives districts more leeway to offer pay in declared education emergencies outside bargaining.