Story perspectives

Florida Legislature Adjourns Amid Stalled Vaccine and Rifle Bills

3/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Florida Legislature nears adjournment after passing only 15 bills.
A bill lowering the age for purchasing rifles remains stalled.
House Speaker Daniel Perez confirmed the vaccine exemption bill will not progress, despite some Senate support.
The Florida Department of Health plans to remove four vaccine mandates unilaterally.
The session is expected to end without resolving these contentious issues.

History

Historical Context

In 2021, the Florida Legislature faced significant challenges, passing only 15 bills during its session, a stark contrast to the average of about 300 bills annually. House Speaker Daniel Perez noted the stalled rifle purchase bill amid ongoing gun control debates, while the Department of Health's removal of vaccine mandates echoed past public health controversies, reflecting historical legislative gridlock similar to the 1994 Assault Weapons Ban debate.

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Story summary

The Florida Legislature nears adjournment after passing only 15 bills.
A bill lowering the age for purchasing rifles remains stalled.
House Speaker Daniel Perez confirmed the vaccine exemption bill will not progress, despite some Senate support.
The Florida Department of Health plans to remove four vaccine mandates unilaterally.
The session is expected to end without resolving these contentious issues.

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