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

Senate President Ben Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez officially called the 2025 Regular Legislative Session to order on Tuesday, March 4. The two leaders shared opening remarks before welcoming Governor Ron DeSantis to deliver his State of the State to a joint meeting of the two chambers. 

"Florida is the leader among states because we lean into challenges, tackle the big issues and deliver results for the people that we serve," said DeSantis. "We lead with purpose and conviction. We lead with determination and strength. We lead with faith, and we lead with hope."

The governor highlighted his administration's recent accomplishments, from tax breaks to signs of a thriving Florida economy. DeSantis also noted the recent immigration laws that were swiftly approved by the legislature during a Special Session last month and immediately signed into law by DeSantis. The FCCB expressed concern over provisions in the legislation, including mandating the death penalty for undocumented people who are found guilty of capital crimes and eliminating in-state tuition at state colleges and universities for undocumented students who have spent at least three years in a Florida high school and maintained residency in Florida.

The full text of the governor's State of the State address is available on his website. Video coverage is available on The Florida Channel.