Building a Healthier Florida: The American Heart Association’s 2026-2027 Policy Agenda
November 10, 2026
Every Floridian deserves the opportunity to live a longer, healthier life. Yet too many families continue to face barriers to healthy food, healthcare access, tobacco-free environments, and safe places to be physically active. That’s why the American Heart Association’s 2026-2027 Florida Public Policy Agenda focuses on evidence-based policies that can improve health where Floridians live, learn, work, and play.
Preparing Schools to Save Lives
Every second counts during a cardiac emergency.
Florida took a major step forward in 2025 with the passage of HB 1607, legislation designed to improve schools’ readiness to respond to cardiac emergencies. The American Heart Association is advocating for the funding necessary to fully implement these requirements, including Plans for Urgent Life-Saving Emergencies (PULSE) and hands-on CPR training for middle and high school students.
By ensuring schools have the resources they need, Florida can better protect students, staff, and visitors when cardiac emergencies occur.
Supporting Healthy Kids Through Better Nutrition
Healthy habits begin early, and schools play an important role in supporting children’s health.
The American Heart Association supports strong, science-based nutrition standards for foods served in schools. Access to nutritious meals helps students learn, grow, and thrive while supporting lifelong health and well-being.
Reducing Tobacco-Related Harm
Tobacco use remains a leading contributor to heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions.
At the state level, the American Heart Association will advocate for comprehensive Medicaid tobacco cessation coverage and defend Florida’s Clean Indoor Air Act from efforts that would weaken protections for workers, families, and youth. We will also oppose policies that promote or incentivize the use of tobacco or nicotine products.
Locally, we will work in Jacksonville to advance zoning policies that limit where tobacco retailers can operate in relation to schools and other places of public accommodation. Reducing youth exposure to tobacco products is a critical step toward preventing lifelong addiction and improving community health.
Protecting Access to Healthcare
Access to affordable healthcare coverage is essential for preventing, managing, and treating cardiovascular disease.
The American Heart Association will support policies that increase access to healthcare coverage and reduce gaps in coverage. We will also oppose proposals that create unnecessary barriers to Medicaid enrollment or retention, helping ensure Floridians can access the care they need.
When people have access to preventive care, medications, and treatment, health outcomes improve and communities are stronger.
Strengthening the Nonprofit Sector
Nonprofit organizations play a vital role in addressing health challenges, supporting families, and creating stronger communities.
The American Heart Association supports policies that help nonprofits more efficiently receive charitable gifts from retirement accounts through the Release of IRA Funds Timely (RIFT) policy, helping organizations put resources to work more quickly in service of their missions.
Building Healthier Communities Through Local Action
The places where people live, work, and travel have a significant impact on health.
In St. Petersburg, the American Heart Association will support Complete Streets policies that prioritize safety and accessibility for all road users, including people who walk, bike, roll, and use public transit. These policies help create communities where residents can safely incorporate physical activity into their daily lives while improving mobility and access for all.
Turning Priorities into Progress
Public policy is one of the most powerful tools for improving health and saving lives. The American Heart Association’s 2026-2027 Florida Public Policy Agenda reflects a comprehensive approach to improving health across the state, from schools and healthcare systems to neighborhoods and local communities.
Throughout the coming legislative sessions and local policy campaigns, advocates across Florida will work with policymakers and community leaders to advance these priorities. Together, we can create a future where every Floridian has the opportunity for a longer, healthier life.