Manufacturing Bill (SB 528/HB 483)

The Big Picture: Why Manufacturing Matters in Florida

·         Florida’s manufacturing sector is a critical driver of the state’s economy.

·         Florida is home to more than 27,300 manufacturing companies.

·         The industry employs approximately 434,600 Floridians across urban and rural communities.

·         Manufacturers provide high-wage, high-skill jobs and support strong local supply chains.

·         Manufacturing strengthens Florida’s economic resilience, national security, and global competitiveness.

Manufacturing is not a niche industry—it is a statewide economic engine that deserves focused leadership and coordinated policy support.

This legislation ensures manufacturing remains a strategic priority for Florida now and in the future.

Sponsors:

·         SB 528 – Senator Keith Truenow

·         HB 483 – Representative Nan Cobb

Overview of SB 528 / HB 483

SB 528 / HB 483 strengthens Florida’s manufacturing ecosystem through:

·         Establishing a Chief Manufacturing Officer (not an FTE)

·         Advancing Manufacturing Workforce and Technology Adoption

·         Requiring a Biennial State of Manufacturing Report

·         Promoting Florida Manufacturing

The bill is designed to support small and mid-sized manufacturers, who make up the majority of Florida’s manufacturing base.

Overview of the Bill:

1.     Establishing a Chief Manufacturing Officer (CMO) What the bill does:

a.     Establishes a Chief Manufacturing Officer within FloridaCommerce.

b.     Institutionalizes manufacturing leadership in state government.

Why it matters:

·         A CMO provides a single point of coordination and accountability.

·         Ensures manufacturing remains a long-term strategic priority, regardless of administration changes.

The Chief Manufacturing Officer gives Florida a dedicated leader focused solely on strengthening manufacturing, coordinating across agencies, and ensuring industry needs are reflected in state strategy.

2.      Advancing Manufacturing Workforce & Technology Adoption What the bill does:

·         Creates the Florida Manufacturers’ Workforce Development Grant Program.

·         Provides grants to small manufacturers to:

o    Adopt advanced and emerging technologies

o    Strengthen cybersecurity infrastructure

o    Expand workforce training and career awareness programs

Why it matters:

·         Small manufacturers often lack access to capital and technical resources.

·         Technology adoption and cybersecurity are now baseline requirements, not optional upgrade

This program helps small manufacturers stay competitive, secure, and innovative while building the next generation of Florida’s manufacturing workforce.

3.      Requires a Biennial State of Manufacturing Report

What the bill does:

Requires a biennial State of Manufacturing Report on Florida’s manufacturing sector.

Why it matters:

•         Provides lawmakers with reliable, data-driven insights into manufacturing trends.

•         Identifies strengths, gaps, and emerging opportunities statewide.

•         Supports long-term manufacturing strategy and informed policymaking.

A clear understanding of today’s manufacturing landscape helps shape a stronger future for Florida’s industry. 

4.       Florida Manufacturing Promotional Campaign What the bill does:

·         Launches a statewide marketing and promotional campaign.

·         Highlights:

o    Florida-made products

o    Manufacturing careers

o    The industry’s role in Florida’s economy

Why it matters:

·         Raises awareness among consumers, students, and job seekers.

·         Encourages buying Florida-made products.

·         Helps attract talent to the manufacturing sector.