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In the final days of the legislative session, Florida lawmakers passed several measures aligned with Governor Ron DeSantis’s agenda that test First Amendment rights. This includes a bill allowing the state to designate terrorist organizations, which experts warn could infringe on student speech, as well as measures restricting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in cities and counties, and reshaping union certification elections.

Why it matters

These new laws raise concerns among free speech experts that they could infringe on constitutional freedoms of speech, assembly, religion, association, and expression. As DeSantis’s final legislative session, the passage of these measures solidifies Florida’s position as a national leader in culture war issues, even as they face potential legal challenges.

The details

The terrorist organization designation bill empowers the state to label domestic and foreign groups as terrorists, and would require universities to expel students who “promote” such groups. Experts warn this could censor lawful student speech activities. Lawmakers also passed a data centers regulation bill that removes public disclosure requirements, and a measure that reshapes union certification elections in a way that could restrict union members’ free speech rights. Additionally, a new law prohibits cities and counties from adopting, promoting or funding DEI programs, which Democrats argue will have a “chilling effect” on local officials’ free speech.

The Florida legislative session is scheduled to end on March 15, 2026.Governor Ron DeSantis is term-limited, meaning this is his final legislative session.
The players

Governor Ron DeSantis

The Republican governor of Florida who has led the state in multiple initiatives questioned by free speech experts, including laws prohibiting the teaching of critical race theory and regulating how race is discussed in schools.

Florida Democratic Lawmakers

Democratic state legislators who have raised concerns about the vagueness of the terrorist organization designation bill and its potential to infringe on student speech.

Free Speech Experts

Legal experts who have warned that the measures passed by Florida lawmakers could present constitutional challenges and infringe on various First Amendment freedoms.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.