Social Policy
Florida Social Issues Guide 2026
Florida social policy at a glance: abortion laws, gun regulations, LGBTQ+ protections, marijuana status, and how these issues shape the 2026 elections.
6-Week Ban
Abortion Status
Mixed
Gun Laws
No Protections
LGBTQ+ Rights
$13.00/hr (rising to $15 by 2026)
Minimum Wage
Abortion Laws in Florida
6-Week Ban
HB 7 (2023 — 6-week ban, after previous 15-week)
6-week ban (before most know they are pregnant)
Gun Laws in Florida
Mixed
Red flag law (post-Parkland); permitless carry (2023); no assault weapons ban
LGBTQ+ Rights in Florida
No Protections
"Don\'t Say Gay" law; no anti-discrimination protections; trans care restrictions
Other Key Issues
| Marijuana | Medical only; 2024 recreational ballot measure failed (55%, needed 60%) |
| Minimum Wage | $13.00/hr (rising to $15 by 2026) |
2026 Political Context
Florida under Gov. DeSantis became the epicenter of the culture war. The 6-week abortion ban, education restrictions, and anti-trans laws made Florida a test case for conservative social policy.