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Bill

HB 293

Office of Faith and Community

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Doug Bankson and 4 co-sponsors

HB 293 would create a Florida state office coordinating partnerships with faith-based and community organizations, though it died in committee after indefinite postponement.

Died on Second Reading Calendar
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Bill Summary · HB 293

Legislative bill overview

HB 293 would establish an Office of Faith and Community within Florida state government to coordinate and support faith-based and community organizations' involvement in state initiatives. The bill creates a formal institutional structure to facilitate partnerships between the state and religious/community groups on policy implementation and service delivery.

Why is this important

This proposal addresses how state government engages with faith institutions and nonprofits—sectors that deliver significant social services in education, healthcare, and community development. The outcome affects both the scope of religious organization participation in government programs and the principles governing such partnerships.

Potential points of contention

  • Separation of church and state concerns: Critics may argue that a dedicated state office promoting faith-based organization involvement blurs constitutional boundaries between government and religion, while supporters contend it simply recognizes existing community resources
  • Scope of authority and funding: Unclear whether the office would direct state funds to faith-based entities, grant them preferential consideration for contracts, or merely facilitate coordination—each raises different legal and policy questions
  • Representation and equity issues: Questions about whether such an office would fairly represent diverse faith traditions and secular community organizations, or potentially favor majority religions or specific theological perspectives

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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