Loading chat...
FL S1656
Bill
Status
Introduced
1/9/2026
Primary Sponsor
Daniel Burgess
Click for details
AI Summary
- Redesignates Florida's official state flagship from the schooner Western Union (a 130-foot sailing vessel built in Key West, launched in 1939) to the S.S. American Victory (a 455-foot historic steamship built in 1944)
- The S.S. American Victory is one of only four operational World War II merchant vessels remaining in the United States and served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War
- The ship is currently an interactive maritime museum located in Tampa, recognized as a National Historic Place in 2002, and has served as a landmark destination for 25 years
- The vessel supports military charities, hosts training for Department of Defense, Department of Justice, and Department of Homeland Security agencies, and serves as an educational platform for schools, universities, Sea Cadets, Scouts, and ROTC programs
- Amends Section 15.0465, Florida Statutes, with an effective date of July 1, 2026
Legislative Description
Designation of the Official State Flagship
Last Action
Laid on Table, refer to CS/HB 249
3/6/2026
Committee Referrals
Rules2/12/2026
Governmental Oversight and Accountability1/27/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available