Recap of the 2025 HR Florida Annual Legislative Conference

By Kimmie Boulahanis and Dee Anna D. Hays, HR Florida Legislative Directors

The 2025 HR Florida Legislative Conference once again proved to be an outstanding success, continuing the momentum of previous years and drawing record-breaking attendance of 143 participants! The growing interest among HR professionals in advocacy and policy engagement is a clear indication of the importance of legislative matters in shaping the future of the workplace. The conference provided a dynamic platform for education, dialogue, and connection, aimed at empowering attendees to be informed advocates for the HR profession.

The two-day event began with opening remarks from HR Florida Council President Dana Mullins, SHRM-SCP, SPHR, setting the stage for thoughtful discussion and collaboration. The agenda was packed with relevant content and impactful speakers, providing a well-rounded look at both state and federal legislative landscapes.

A highlight of the first afternoon was an engaging conversation with State Representative Kevin Steele. Now in his second term, Representative Steele offered an inside look at the legislative process, sharing practical insights on relationship-building and the importance of grassroots advocacy. He provided a clear and informative explanation of how potential legislation is introduced, referred to committees, and ultimately heard—demystifying a process that can often seem opaque to those outside the Capitol. His advice underscored the critical role HR professionals can play in shaping policy by engaging with legislators early and often.

Mark Wilson, President and CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, returned to provide a forward-thinking, business-focused perspective. His presentation centered on updates tied to the Florida 2030 Blueprint, emphasizing critical priorities such as workforce development, infrastructure, and housing—all vital to sustaining a competitive and thriving economy. Mark’s presentations continue to be an incredible asset for Florida businesses, offering a wealth of detailed data and strategic insight. This year, he highlighted the immense opportunity for upskilling and reskilling talent, reinforcing the need for proactive investment in our future workforce. A standout insight was the forecast of top high-demand careers in 2032, with positions like heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers, accountants and auditors, and service-based sales representatives leading the list, highlighting the evolving needs of Florida’s workforce.

Dee Anna Hays, Esq., Caren Marlow, JD, and Justin McConnell, JD, delivered a comprehensive legislative update that delved into a wide range of proposed workplace legislation currently under consideration in the Florida House and Senate. Their session not only outlined the status of key bills but also offered in-depth analysis on how these proposals could directly affect HR practices across the state. By breaking down the real-world implications of pending legislation, they helped attendees better understand the stakes and the importance of proactive engagement. The panel was both informative and thought-provoking, equipping HR professionals with the insight and tools necessary to confidently navigate—and influence—the evolving legislative landscape.

This year, attendees heard a powerful video message from Emily M. Dickens, J.D., SHRM’s Chief of Staff and Head of Government Affairs. Emily’s remarks centered on the importance of bipartisan advocacy and SHRM’s federal legislative priorities. Her message served as a compelling reminder of the far-reaching influence HR professionals have when they engage with public policy.

Kimmie Boulahanis, SHRM-CP, PHR, provided an insightful overview of SHRM’s A-Team and federal legislative initiatives, reinforcing the vital importance of advocacy at both the state and national levels. She shared an update on SHRM’s efforts to advise Congress on modernizing key areas of the workplace—specifically focusing on closing the workforce participation gap, shaping the future of work, and updating pivotal workplace policies to reflect today’s evolving needs. Kimmie also outlined SHRM’s 2025 policy pillars, which include workplace immigration, workforce development, workplace flexibility and leave, inclusion, healthcare, and governance. Her presentation underscored the value of staying informed and involved as HR professionals help influence the direction of workplace legislation.

Day two was devoted to legislative visits, and this year, we truly “stormed the Capitol”. With a record number of constituents participating, HR professionals from across the state filled the halls of the Florida Capitol, ready to engage in meaningful dialogue with lawmakers. The impact was clear, legislators were notably more engaged in our discussions, offering thoughtful responses and detailed explanations that helped us better understand the rationale behind several newly proposed bills. These conversations weren’t just surface level; they reflected genuine two-way dialogue, with attendees sharing real-world HR perspectives and lawmakers taking time to listen and respond. The energy and passion throughout the day were palpable, as participants embraced the opportunity to advocate for workplace policies that support both employers and employees. It was a powerful reminder of the influence our profession can have when we show up and speak out.

As the conference wrapped up, the atmosphere was one of optimism and renewed purpose. Participants left feeling inspired and empowered to take action—whether by reaching out to local legislators or sharing updates with their chapters. In summary, the 2025 Legislative Conference was not only the most well-attended to date, but also one of the most impactful. It reaffirmed the essential role HR professionals play in influencing legislation and building better workplaces. As we move forward, the insights, relationships, and advocacy sparked at this event will continue to resonate across the state—and beyond.