Forward is committed to allowing candidates to formulate positions on all issues without adhering to a party platform or litmus tests. We also are committed to improving the incentives that drive the integrity of elections and governance. Our Legislative Agenda, then, focuses on bills before the Florida Legislature that may enhance or detract from these incentives. We will advocate for the support of or opposition to such bills. Individual Forwardists may hold a different view which, of course, we will respect.
The Florida Forward Party supports bill SJR 802, which would result in a proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution to set term limits for county commissioners and school board members. If adopted by the Legislature, the proposed amendment would be submitted to voters for approval or rejection during the November 2026 general election.
Public service, including roles on county commissions and school boards, is to be commended. Membership experience and continuity on such entities can enhance their functioning and the services they perform. Still, term limits facilitate the injection of new voices and fresh ideas. These, in turn, help school boards and county commissions remain sensitive to evolving community needs and perspectives. Term limits also prevent “lifers” from using the power of incumbency to monopolize seats. The proposed limits of eight consecutive years of service strike a reasonable balance.
We benefit from term limits in many areas of government. The SJB 802 proposed term limits for school boards exist in statute; this bill simply codifies them in the Florida Constitution, but the limits for county commissions would be new. We believe passage of this bill would enhance the health of our local governance.
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Suggested Comments for Legislators and Letters to the Editor
- Term limits are a good idea in general. That’s why I support SJR 802. Eight straight years for school boards and country commissions is plenty.
- In my experience, getting new people on our boards and commissions brings new ideas. I have seen too many political soap operas starring incumbents who view a seat as “theirs” and get indignant if anyone dares disagree with that. Vote “Yes” on SJR 802.
- Sadly, some people just don’t know when to let go. That’s why term limits are needed. Please support SJR 802.
- Most public offices are not meant to be filled by one person for very long. SJR will help make sure we have a healthy rotation of people on our boards and commissions.
Suggested Comments for Friends and Social Media Posts
Term limits are not perfect, but in general they work. We get new choices more frequently. SJR 802 will help set 8-year term limits for school boards and county commissions. That feels like a good balance to me.
I reached out to my Representative and Senator told them I am for SJB 802. Please do the same. And spread the word! Better incentives in government will give us better government.
