Inside the Legislative Process:

The Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance’s visit to Washington, D.C., gave me a rare chance to see how national policy really works. We watched a bill being voted on from the gallery–a scene of organized chaos as lawmakers swiped their ID cards to cast votes while conversing across the chamber. At times, the presiding speaker had to call for order just to read proposed actions aloud. It was unforgettable. This firsthand glimpse at “how the sausage is made” deepened our appreciation for the complexities of lawmaking.

Touring the U.S. Capitol

The tour of the U.S. Capitol added historical depth to our trip. Florida is represented in the National Statuary Hall Collection by two statues:

• Dr. John Gorrie (1803 – 1855), the physician and scientist known as the father of modern air conditioning and refrigeration. His innovations were pivotal for public health in the South.
• Mary McLoed Bethune (1875 – 1955), the civil rights leader and educator who founded the National Council of Negro Women and Bethune-Cookman University. She is the first African American to represent any state in the Hall.

Seeing these statues underscored the diverse and trailblazing heritage of Florida’s contributions to the nation.

Key Meetings with Florida Lawmakers

Our delegation met with several members of Congress who are shaping Florida’s future:

• Congressman Greg Steube expressed strong support for securing federal dollars for Fruitville Road. He challenged Sarasota to invest in infrastructure proactively–building capacity ahead of development rather than reacting afterward.
• Congressman Byron Donalds, a Fort Myers representative and gubernatorial candidate; as a former banker he brings a fiscally strategic approach to government.
• Representative William Connelly joined our discussions on a short break form his efforts to ensure Florida’s unique space sector needs were represented as Congress deliberated national space-related rules and funding streams.
• Congressman Vern Buchanan showed us his kind hospitality as he invited us into his Washington home. From his rooftop penthouse, we enjoyed sweeping views of the city while engaging with him and his staff on local, state, and federal policies affecting our region.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce Interaction

In addition to housing and talent/employee training, representatives of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce shared their efforts to pass the Big Beautiful Law. They indicated that some of the elements that involved funding decreases had delayed impacts. This delay could allow logistics to be worked through prior to implementation.

Delayed Impact Provisions of the “One Big Beautiful Law”

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce detailed several provisions in the new “One Big Beautiful Law” that will shape small business tax planning over the next several years. The delayed impacts include:

• SNAP (Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program) changes (no set date 2025+): States must start covering 15% of SNAP administrative costs by 2028. New work requirements and restrictions will gradually phase in for adults up to age 64.
• Medicaid work requirements (2027-2028): New rules and waivers will be introduced after June 2026 with full compliance required by 2028. This will affect small businesses and nonprofits serving Medicaid populations.

Overall Takeaways

This trip underscored the vital connection between federal policy decisions and local community outcomes. From infrastructure funding to social service reforms, the laws debated and passed in Washington directly impact Sarasota, Manatee, and the broader Florida region. By building relationships with lawmakers and understanding the legislative process firsthand, we can better advocate for policies that support our businesses and residents.