DeSantis signs education bills in Fort Myers; one decertifies unions without 50% participation, another incentivizes some teacher pay

May 4, 2026 - 22:52

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed two education bills during a press conference Friday at Fort Myers High School, introducing major changes to teacher union rules and salary incentives.

One of the bills, which drew immediate attention from educators and labor groups, requires that at least 50 percent of eligible members in a teacher union must participate in certification elections. If that threshold is not met, the union could lose its official certification. Supporters argue the measure ensures that unions have genuine, widespread support from the teachers they represent. Critics, however, say it creates an unnecessary barrier that could weaken collective bargaining power and silence the voices of educators who choose not to vote.

The second bill focuses on teacher compensation. It creates a new incentive program aimed at boosting pay for teachers who take on additional responsibilities or work in high-need subject areas. The state will allocate funds to school districts that design performance-based pay structures, with the goal of attracting and retaining qualified educators in fields like math, science, and special education.

DeSantis spoke at the event surrounded by local school officials and lawmakers, emphasizing that the legislation is meant to improve accountability in schools and reward effective teaching. He did not directly address the controversy surrounding the union decertification rule, but his office has previously stated that the bill is about ensuring transparency and fairness in union representation.

The signing comes as Florida continues to rank near the bottom nationally in average teacher pay, a point opponents of the bills were quick to highlight. Some teacher advocacy groups have already announced plans to challenge the union certification law in court, arguing it violates First Amendment rights.