Florida Senate Bill 1296 (2026 session) is legislation targeting public-sector unions, primarily aiming to make it harder for them to maintain certification. It requires unions to have at least 50% of all employees in a bargaining unit vote for them to remain recognized. This bill aims to overhaul the process by which public employee unions are certified and maintained in Florida. It passed the Florida Senate on March 6, 2026, and is now moving to the House.
Key Provisions:
- Higher Voting Thresholds: Non-public safety unions (like those for teachers and sanitation workers) must now secure a majority vote of all employees in the bargaining unit to be certified or recertified, rather than just a majority of those who actually cast a ballot.
- “Showing of Interest”: Requires unions to submit “showing of interest” forms signed by at least 30% of employees within the last 12 months for any certification or recertification petition.
- Union Leave Restrictions: Narrows the ability of union members to use paid leave for union activities unless the union fully reimburses the employer.
- Exemptions: Specifically excludes “public safety” unions, such as those representing police officers, firefighters, and correctional officers.
- Financial Disclosures: Expands the financial information unions must provide during annual registration, including salaries of high-level officers.
Florida Senate (.gov) +5
Current Status:
The bill passed the Senate with a 20-14 vote on March 6, 2026. It now heads to the Florida House, where a similar companion bill (HB 995) is already under consideration.
The bill passed the Senate with a 20-14 vote on March 6, 2026. It now heads to the Florida House, where a similar companion bill (HB 995) is already under consideration.
Why is it important here you might ask? If they can erode our sister Locals in th public sector, who do think is next?
Call your Florida Senator and Congressperson and them to stop this bill!