Florida Legislative Session Ends with Key Wins for Hunters and Conservation
The 2026 Regular Session of the Florida Legislature officially adjourned sine die on Friday, March 13, after a productive 60 days that delivered several meaningful victories for Florida’s hunters, anglers, and conservation community. While lawmakers were unable to finalize the state budget (marking the second year in a row this has occurred), more than 200 bills were passed and sent to Governor Ron DeSantis for his signature.
Florida’s strong pro-hunting and pro-conservation culture shone through once again, with legislation advancing outdoor access, protecting rural lands and wildlife habitat. Here’s a summary of the most important outcomes for Hunter Nation members:
Conservation Lands Transparency & Protection (HB 441 / SB 546)
This critical bill strengthens safeguards for Florida’s state forests, wildlife management areas, and other conservation lands by requiring 30-day public notice, website publication of parcel details and
appraisals, and clear justification before any sale or exchange. It builds directly on last year’s successful State Parks Preservation Act and was designed to prevent controversial land swaps like the one proposed at Guana River WMA.
Status: Passed the Legislature and is now heading to Governor DeSantis for signature.
2026 Florida Farm Bill (SB 290)
The comprehensive Farm Bill protects rural and agricultural lands while supporting natural resources. Key provisions include stronger rural land-use protections, measures to defend working farms and landscapes, and language that safeguards public safety and conservation values tied to agriculture.
Status: Passed the Legislature and is now heading to Governor DeSantis for signature.
Additional Pro-Industry & Second Amendment Progress
HB 1551 (firearm manufacturer liability protections) passed the House and advanced in the Senate, providing important legal safeguards for the firearms industry that supports Florida’s hunting and shooting heritage. However, this bill failed to receive final passage by the Senate.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Commissioners also finalized rule changes for the 2026-27 hunting seasons, expanding access and opportunities on multiple Wildlife Management Areas (including new youth and family hunts, increased quotas, and easier hog-dog rules in places like Green Swamp WMA).
Special Sessions on the Horizon
Because the budget was not completed, lawmakers will return for a
budget-focused special session in mid-April. A separate special session on congressional redistricting is already scheduled for late April (April 20–24). Additional discussions on property tax relief are also expected in the upcoming special sessions. Hunter Nation will continue monitoring these closely for any impacts on outdoor funding or wildlife programs.
