Florida Policy Index

Florida’s economic development strategy is increasingly focused on a new set of priorities: industrial capacity, skilled workforce development and infrastructure capable of supporting defense, maritime and advanced manufacturing.

Between 2014 and 2024, Florida’s nominal gross domestic product increased from approximately $860 billion to $1.73 trillion. In current-dollar terms, the state economy almost exactly doubled in ten years. The expansion reached well beyond hotels, theme parks and residential development. Professional and technical services, finance, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, aerospace and the broader digital economy all became more consequential parts of Florida’s economic base.

Florida’s economy is increasingly digital. Technology companies, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity, telecommunications, financial technology and digital services are becoming more deeply embedded in industries across the state. At the same time, Florida is investing in the physical infrastructure that supports that economy — broadband networks, data centers, power generation and an increasingly sophisticated public-sector technology environment.

Florida's premium cigar industry is one of the state's most distinctive economic and cultural success stories. Today, Florida's cigar market exceeds $2 billion, supporting manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, premium cigar lounges, hospitality businesses, tourism, and thousands of jobs throughout the state. Beyond its commercial value, the industry represents a unique blend of craftsmanship, entrepreneurship, international trade, and Florida heritage.

Florida's general revenue collection exceeded expectations by $596 million from July through January.

The legislation represents a significant change in Florida law. For decades, regulation of smoking had been largely preempted to the state, preventing local governments from adopting their own restrictions on smoking in public outdoor spaces. HB 105 creates a limited exception by allowing local governments to adopt ordinances restricting the use of cigarettes and electronic smoking devices at public beaches and parks within their jurisdictions.

“I’m very grateful to the clients who made this possible. It’s truly an honor to be recognized alongside some of Florida’s best-known and most dominant brands,” said Sebastian Aleksander, Florida lobbyist and Founder & Principal of The Aleksander Group, who continues to continues to serve clients across Florida’s most heavily regulated industries through strategic advocacy, government relations, Tallahassee lobbying and business policy execution.