Florida Policy Index

Florida's economy has evolved into one of the largest and most dynamic in the world. With a gross state product approaching $1.7 trillion, Florida now ranks among the world's largest economies if measured as an independent nation. Behind much of that growth—international trade, manufacturing, tourism, defense, logistics, energy, and construction—stands an industry that often receives far less public attention than it deserves: maritime.

Policies restricting or banning student cellphone use in schools are rapidly gaining nationwide support, backed by extensive research, mounting evidence of harm, and disturbing victim testimony. Yet enforcement remains the central challenge, as many school district administrations wrongly believe that consistent implementation would require substantial additional staffing and pull teachers and administrators away from instruction and student support.

Florida’s 2026 infrastructure and regulatory framework is not designed for incremental growth—it is engineered to attract hyperscale, AI-driven data center development. The shift is deliberate, and it is already reshaping where capital flows.

Digital distraction is no longer a minor nuisance — it is a measurable safety and economic issue. The impact extends beyond safety. Broader digital distraction and disengagement are estimated to cost U.S. employers up to $1.9 trillion annually in lost productivity. TRUCE Software applies contextual mobility management to set intelligent boundaries around device use to eliminate digital distractions without banning mobile devices and phones outright.

Miami’s estimated $25 billion in World Cup–related investment underscores how global sporting events increasingly function as catalysts for infrastructure modernization and long-term economic development.

Moffitt Cancer Center, Florida’s premier National Cancer Institute-designated facility, has expanded its partnership with biotechnology firm RyboDyn, Inc. to accelerate the development of advanced immunotherapies.