As 2024 draws to a close, Florida is poised to grapple with several significant legal challenges in the coming year. This article outlines ten major legal issues currently pending in state and federal courts, reflecting the state’s dynamic legal landscape.
In the arena of education, federal lawsuits have been filed by publishers, authors, and parents against a 2023 state law that led to the removal or restricted access to certain books in school libraries. These lawsuits claim First Amendment violations, whereas the law’s proponents argue it removes inappropriate material from schools.
The COVID-19 pandemic left a lasting impact on university campuses, leading to a wave of lawsuits demanding refunds for fees paid by students for services unutilized due to closures. The Florida Supreme Court is scrutinizing one such lawsuit against the University of Florida regarding fees for transportation, health care, and athletics.
Gun laws remain a contentious issue, with the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reviewing a Second Amendment challenge to a 2018 Florida statute. This law, initiated in response to the tragic Parkland shooting, restricts individuals under 21 from purchasing rifles and other long guns, and is being contested by the National Rifle Association.
Following the end of a federal public health emergency, a class-action lawsuit questions the process by which individuals were removed from Florida’s Medicaid program. Plaintiffs argue that the state failed to adequately notify those impacted before termination of their benefits.
The constitutionality of a redistricting plan spearheaded by Governor Ron DeSantis is under the microscope of the state Supreme Court. Voting-rights groups have approached the court to challenge the plan after the 1st District Court of Appeal’s decision to uphold it.
A 2021 state law regulating social media platforms has sparked ongoing courtroom debates. This law aims to prevent major platforms from banning political candidates, following actions against former President Donald Trump post the Capitol events of January 6, 2021.
A newer social media restriction law is also under fire for attempting to curb children under 16 from creating accounts on select platforms, with provisions for parental consent for those aged 14 and 15. Industry groups are contesting the law on grounds of First Amendment rights.
The “Stop WOKE Act,” targeting race-related teaching in universities, has walked into legal conflict, with the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals evaluating its constitutionality after a lower court issued an injunction deeming it a First Amendment violation.
Transgender rights are at the forefront, with cases challenging laws prohibiting Medicaid coverage for hormone therapy and puberty blockers. These laws also restrict minors from accessing such treatments, with additional constraints on adult recipients.
Lastly, the dispute over wetlands permits sees environmental groups at odds with Florida and the federal government after a judge nullified a 2020 shift in permitting control to Florida from federal authorities.
The resolution of these legal battles will undoubtedly shape Florida’s legal and social landscape in 2025 and beyond. Stakeholders across various sectors are closely monitoring the outcomes, which promise to have far-reaching implications for residents and legal precedents alike.
Source: Nbcmiami
