Florida Moves to Repeal School Start Time Law

Florida lawmakers are pushing to repeal a 2023 law that mandated later school start times, originally set to take effect in 2026, due to logistical challenges faced by school districts. The law required middle and high schools to start no earlier than 8 a.m. and 8:30 a.m., respectively. Bill sponsor Senator Jennifer Bradley highlights significant financial and operational hurdles such as the need for more buses and drivers, and disruptions to parents' schedules and after-school activities. The Senate Committee on Education PreK-12 has moved forward with a bill to repeal the mandate, with support from many school districts and educational organizations. Various stakeholders argue that control of start times should be returned to local districts. The legislative session will continue to discuss the implications of this potential change on students and communities across the state.