In 2019 alone, Florida lawmakers have filed over 3,500 bills. Of these, about 200 made it through both the House and Senate.

Some of these laws are already in effect, and others go into effect today (July 1st). We’ve compiled a list of the major ones that will affect most Floridians. Check them out below!

Texting & Driving (HB 107)

Texting and driving is now a primary offense. Law Enforcement Officers will be allowed to pull you over for this reason alone.

Bright Futures Scholarships (SB 190)

Bright Future scholarship requirements just got a little tougher. The “Academic” scholarship will now require and SAT score of nearly 1,330 instead of the previous 1,290. The “Medallion” scholarship will require a 1,200 score, which was raised from 1,170.

Red Tide Mitigation (SB 1552)

Florida lawmakers enacted the Red Tide Mitigation program. This will allot $3 million per year for 6 years in the fights against harmful algae blooms.

Shark Fishing

Shore-bound shark fishing will now require a license in Florida. Other changes include, but aren’t limited to: sharks must stay in the water, no chumming is permitted and circle hooks must be used.

Gardening (SB 82)

Floridians are now permitted to grow fruits and vegetables in their front yard gardens. As if it stopped anyone before!

Affordable Drugs (HB 19)

Cheaper drugs from Canada and other countries can now be imported into Florida.

Autonomous Vehicles (HB 311) 

Clears obstacles and provides regulations in the development of driver-less vehicles.

Vaping (SPB 7012)

Vaping is now banned at indoor workplaces.

Hemp Products (SB 1020)

New rules that allow for and govern the growth, sale and use of Hemp and CBD products in Florida.