Protestors rally in Ybor / Chris Young, WMNF News, 2/26/2026
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A Florida bill targeting unions is drawing pushback from activists in Tampa.
Around forty activists rallied against the bill in Ybor City on Thursday.
Demonstrators, many representing unions, gathered to speak out against Senate Bill 1296.
The bill would require public-sector unions to have majority support from all employees they represent before gaining bargaining power, not just those who vote.
Stephanie Yocum is the President of the West-Central Florida Labor Council and the Polk Education Association.
She says that if put into law, the bill would threaten union members’ ability to fight for salaries and healthcare.
“Workers in the state run this state, and yet we continue to be last on their priority list, and in fact, they are trying to harm us with this bill and take our constitutional rights away to association and to collectively bargain with our employer.” Yocum told WMNF.
Christy Kirkland has been a teacher at Polk County Public Schools for 25 years.
She says the bill will weaken unions and make it harder for teachers to afford to live.
“This bill will make it impossible for me to make it to 30 years. I would not be able to afford the home I live in, the car I drive, or the gas that I need to get to school. This bill will do nothing for public education, or any public union workers.” Kirkland said.
A Senate analysis of the bill revealed several constitutional issues. Supporters say the bill closes a gap in union accountability.
Various members protesting in Tampa on Thursday say they’re headed to Tallahassee to speak against the bill.
The Senate version of the bill is set to be heard in committee on Monday, with the House bill also progressing through committees.