Florida's 'Anti-Diversity Bill' Threatens Funding for LGBTQ+ Pride and Cultural Events

Local officials warn the new law will have major financial consequences for communities across the state.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 11:21pm

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Florida's controversial 'Anti-Diversity Bill' has passed both the state House and Senate, prohibiting counties and municipalities from using funds or taking official action related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) activities. Local officials and residents are voicing strong opposition, fearing the legislation will severely impact community life and the financial stability of major LGBTQ+ Pride celebrations and other cultural events.

Why it matters

The bill threatens the funding and promotion of important community events that generate significant economic activity and visibility for marginalized groups. Officials warn it could impact a wide range of cultural celebrations beyond just LGBTQ+ Pride.

The details

The bill prohibits counties and municipalities from using funds or taking official action related to DEI. In Wilton Manors, the mayor said the city's $50,000 to $75,000 investment in its one-day Pride event generates an estimated $1.5 million for the area. In Miami Beach, the city invests about $300,000 into its April Pride celebration. Officials are also concerned the bill could impact support for other cultural activities like the Jose Marti celebration and the Jewish Film Festival.

  • The 'Anti-Diversity Bill' has passed both the Florida House and Senate.
  • The bill is headed to the governor's desk, where it is expected to be signed into law.
  • The new law will go into effect in January 2027.

The players

Scott Newton

The mayor of Wilton Manors, Florida.

Rich Hoffman

A Wilton Manors resident who called the bill "very discriminatory" and "homophobic."

Alex Fernandez

An openly gay commissioner in Miami Beach, Florida.

Dean Black

The author of the 'Anti-Diversity Bill' who was not available for comment.

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What they’re saying

“It's part of a community. It's part of our heartbeat of Wilton Manors.”

— Scott Newton, Mayor of Wilton Manors (CBS News Miami)

“It's very discriminatory. It's homophobic. The government is continuing to try to eliminate the visibility of gays and lesbians in our state.”

— Rich Hoffman, Wilton Manors resident (CBS News Miami)

“Will we be able to continue supporting events like Jose Marti, our Jose Marti celebration? Will we be able to continue supporting the Jewish Film Festival, which is a cultural activity?”

— Alex Fernandez, Miami Beach Commissioner (CBS News Miami)

What’s next

The bill is expected to be signed into law by the governor and will go into effect in January 2027.

The takeaway

This legislation threatens the funding and promotion of important community events that generate significant economic activity and visibility for marginalized groups in Florida. Officials warn it could have far-reaching impacts beyond just LGBTQ+ Pride celebrations, potentially jeopardizing support for a wide range of cultural celebrations across the state.