The proposed bill, titled the Florida Speech and Debate Education Act, aims to enhance speech and debate education across the state of Florida. It establishes the Florida Speech and Debate Hall of Fame, which will honor individuals who have significantly contributed to the field and will be located in the Capitol Building. Additionally, the bill designates the first week of November as Florida Speech and Debate Week to recognize the importance of competitive speech and debate in fostering academic and civic engagement. The Florida Debate Initiative, Inc. (FDI) is designated as the official statewide organization responsible for managing and expanding K-20 speech and debate programs, including the establishment of regional traveling debate teams and the development of teacher endorsements in speech and debate.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the creation of the Institute for Speech and Debate Innovation within the Florida Virtual School, which will focus on developing online curricula and innovative coaching tools. It also requires school districts to report on their speech and debate programs annually, detailing participation rates and resources needed for expansion. The bill includes appropriations totaling over $4 million to support the initiatives outlined, including funding for the FDI, regional debate teams, and the Hall of Fame. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.