Annual Session Called to Order; DeSantis Delivers State of the State Address

On Tuesday, January 13, Senate President Ben Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez officially called the 2026 Regular Legislative Session to order. The two leaders shared opening remarks before welcoming Governor Ron DeSantis to deliver his 8th and final State of the State address to a joint meeting of the House and Senate chambers.

“Seven years ago, I stood on the steps of the old Capitol building to articulate a new vision, launch a bold agenda, and make a promise to produce big results,” said DeSantis. “We have been faithful to that vision. We have delivered big results, and we have set the standard for the rest of the country to follow.”

The governor highlighted his administration’s accomplishments, including bolstering the state’s economy and budget, tripling the rainy-day fund and doubling budget reserves. He touted parental empowerment with universal school choice, the reduction in the number of children entering the child welfare system, and religious liberties. 

During this year’s session, he urged lawmakers to reform Florida’s property tax system, calling for a ballot measure that would deliver relief to taxpayers. He also called on legislators to ensure that emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, develop in moral and ethical ways.

DeSantis concluded, “We are the keepers of the flame of liberty that burned in Philadelphia in July of 1776. We will not allow the flame to go out. We will answer the call; we will go forward with courage; we will take bold action; we will get the job done.”
Watch his full speech on The Florida Channel.