1. Support the Elimination of the Business Rent Tax

Governor Ron DeSantis has proposed a complete repeal of Florida’s business rent tax — a significant move that would benefit small businesses, including those owned by Black entrepreneurs.
Key Benefits:

• Reduces operational costs
• Stimulates small business growth
• Encourages entrepreneurship

2. Advocate for the Increase of the Tangible Personal Property Tax Exemption

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) supports increasing the tangible personal property tax exemption to $50,000, with adjustments for inflation.
Why It Matters:

• Reduces the tax burden
• Frees up capital for reinvestment
• Supports sustainable business growth

3. Oppose the Repeal of Minority Business Enterprise Programs

Several bills threaten to dismantle programs supporting minority business participation:

• Senate Bill 1532 – Removes provisions promoting minority participation in public construction contracts
• House Bill 1125 – Repeals the Black Business Loan Program and other targeted support initiatives

These programs are essential for equitable economic opportunity. The Chamber strongly opposes their repeal.

4. Oppose the Governor’s Proposed Defunding of the Black Business Loan Program

This program provides critical financial support for Black-owned businesses that face barriers accessing traditional funding.
Impacts of Defunding:

• Reduces access to capital
• Limits job creation and economic mobility
• Threatens community-based economic development

5. Oppose Bills that Limit Local M/WBE Programs

Senate Bill 420 and House Bill 1571 would prohibit local governments from creating or funding programs that offer preferential treatment to minority- or women-owned businesses.
Why This Matters:

• Undermines local control
• Limits communities’ ability to address unique economic disparities
• Weakens equity-focused local development efforts

6. Monitor Legislation Affecting Small Business Procurement Opportunities

House Bill 1185 proposes changes to Florida’s procurement rules, potentially limiting access to state contracts.
The Chamber will monitor this bill to ensure equitable access to procurement opportunities for Black-owned businesses.

7. Support Infrastructure Development That Benefits Small Businesses

House Bill 215 and Senate Bill 324 aim to provide financial relief for businesses impacted by prolonged construction projects.
Supporting this legislation ensures that Black-owned businesses are included in economic development and protected from disruption.

8. Engage in Discussions on Election Law Changes

Proposed changes to Florida’s citizen-led constitutional amendment process may affect business-related ballot initiatives.
The Chamber is committed to ensuring Black business voices are represented in these conversations.

9. Address the Property Insurance Crisis

Escalating property insurance costs burden business owners across the state.
We advocate for reforms that:

• Stabilize insurance premiums
• Protect commercial assets
• Support business continuity for Black entrepreneurs

The Big Picture: Three Core Priorities

Housing

Affordable housing is an economic necessity. Without it:

• Business owners and employees struggle with retention
• Community development suffers
• Economic mobility is stifled

Policies promoting affordable housing will support business sustainability and strengthen Palm Beach County’s economy.

Education

Workforce development begins with access to quality education and job training.
We support legislation that:

• Expands entrepreneurship education
• Grows workforce development programs
• Increases capital access for Black business owners

Education is key to closing the wealth gap and developing the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Healthcare

Small business owners often face challenges providing healthcare benefits.
We support initiatives that:

• Expand access to affordable healthcare
• Improve access to mental health resources
• Reduce burdens on small business owners and employees

Contact Information

Ms. Keely Gideon-Taylor
President
📧 President@BlackChamberPBC.com
📞 (561) 707-7993

Mr. Joseph Sanches
Immediate Past President
📧 josephmsanches@gmail.com
📞 (561) 891-0793

Florida Association of Black Chambers of Commerce
1451 West Cypress Creek Road, Suite 300
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309
🌐 www.floridablackchambers.com

Ms. Shaheewa Jarrett Gelin, Esq.
President
📧 sgelin@floridablackchambers.com