Key Engagements:

• August 11 – FRACCA met with Senate President Kathleen Passidomo to discuss the proposed pool heater bill, signaling early interest ahead of the 2026 legislative session.
• August 25 – Introductory meeting with Representative Albert, with further discussion on the pool heater bill and its potential impact on contractors.

Florida Legislative Activity:

• The pool heater bill is gaining traction, with conversations underway among key legislative leaders. FRACCA is actively engaged in shaping the bill to reflect contractor concerns.
• Interim Committee Weeks begin in September, marking the start of bill drafting and early hearings. FRACCA will monitor legislation related to licensing, permitting, and HVAC-related building code updates.

Industry & Regulatory News:

• The EPA refrigerant transition rule continues to move forward, phasing out R-410A in favor of low-GWP A2L refrigerants (R-32, R-454B). This shift will impact:
  • Equipment selection
  • Technician training
  • Local building codes
• FRACCA is advocating for contractor-friendly implementation and monitoring compliance timelines.
• Workforce development remains a priority, with the U.S. Department of Education District Workforce Committee emphasizing HVAC training as part of Florida’s skilled trades pipeline.

Looking Ahead:

• September 2025 – Draft legislation on pool heaters may emerge during Interim Committee Weeks.
• Q4 2025 – EPA expected to release updated guidance on refrigerant leak detection, reporting, and recovery.
• Continued outreach planned to legislative leaders on:
  • Pool heater legislation
  • Refrigerant rule implementation
  • Workforce funding for HVAC training

Submitted by Edward Briggs, Founder/CEO of B&B Capitol Strategies and FRACCA Lobbyist