DeSantis Signs 12 New Laws: Major Changes Ahead for Florida Families!

Leon County, Florida, USA - Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has been hard at work, signing a slew of new laws that will undoubtedly impact many facets of life across the state. On June 6, 2025, he approved 12 new bills, which will take effect on July 1, alongside more than 70 other pieces of legislation passed during this session. From law enforcement to important health measures addressing autism, these new laws are stirring conversations among Floridians.

The new laws touch on a wide array of topics, with a few standout measures grabbing headlines. For instance, under Click Orlando’s report, HB 711, dubbed the „Spectrum Alert,“ establishes a statewide alert system specifically for missing children with autism. This system is part of a broader legislative effort aimed at bolstering protections and resources for families affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Support for Autism

The commitment to improving the lives of those with autism has been firmly cemented with the signing of Senate Bill 112, which enhances early detection and support, as noted by Florida Daily. This bill designates the Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment at the University of Florida as a statewide hub for autism research and resources. Parents of young children can breathe a little easier knowing that early intervention services can continue through the Early Steps Program up until their child turns four.

In expanding critical resources, the new legislation includes provisions for summer programs tailored for children with autism, providing structured activities year-round. The law even creates a grant program designed to support charter schools exclusively for children with autism, making sure that the educational needs of these children are adequately met.

As concerns mount over the rising rates of autism—where currently 1 in 36 children are diagnosed—the importance of these measures cannot be overstated. According to Florida Politics, this comprehensive approach will also tackle important safety concerns. The legislation includes crisis intervention training for law enforcement officers to better recognize and respond to individuals with autism, which is crucial given that children with autism are at significantly higher risk for accidents.

Additional Legislation

Beyond autism-related initiatives, several other notable laws were also unveiled. For example, HB 687 intensifies penalties for repeat DUI and BUI offenders, transforming subsequent violations into first-degree felonies. This bill, known as „Trenton’s Law,“ memorializes a tragic incident involving a DUI fatality.

Healthcare concerns also rise with HB 929, which expands firefighters‘ health coverage to include occupational diseases and suicide. Firefighters will benefit from improved safety measures, including limited shift hours and access to non-hazardous gear.

The spectrum of legislation doesn’t stop there. HB 1559 aims to tackle frivolous lawsuits by redefining „vexatious litigants,“ while HB 1353 grants more operational flexibility to home health agencies. All this legislation underscores a broader commitment by the DeSantis administration to address a multitude of community needs.

In conclusion, as these laws roll out on July 1, Florida is looking ahead with optimism. For families grappling with autism, in particular, the enhancements in support, education, and safety could represent a tangible shift towards a more inclusive society. With this wave of legislative changes, it’s clear that there are meaningful steps being taken to cultivate a brighter future for all Floridians.