Bill > H1059

This bill establishes "Florida Speech and Debate Week" annually in February to recognize the academic, civic, and leadership benefits of competitive speech and debate, honor those who support it, inspire student participation, and promote Florida's leadership in this area. Additionally, subject to legislative funding, it creates the Florida Debate Initiative, Inc. (FDI), a nonprofit statewide organization that will manage, develop, and expand civics, speech, and debate programs for K-12 and college students, working in support of the Department of Education's Florida Civics and Debate Initiative (FCDI). The FDI will educate and train coaches and students, train judges, promote competition, establish standards, maintain data, and assist the FCDI with its initiatives, while also being authorized to partner with various educational and governmental entities. The bill outlines specific collaborative events between the FCDI and FDI, such as "The Great Debate" championship, and details authorized uses of funds for the FDI, including administrative and programmatic operations, tournament costs, participant travel, and partnership development. The FDI is required to publish an annual report online and submit it to the Department of Education by December 31st, detailing student participation, program outcomes, and expenditures, with the FCDI providing necessary data to the FDI by November 1st each year.

Education

Education & Employment Committee (House), Student Academic Success Subcommittee (House)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/1059