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Florida House Bill 399 Becomes Law: What It Means for Local Governments and Development

04.27.2026
Kathleen “Katie” O. Berkey, AICP

On March 27, 2026, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Florida HB 399 into law (Chapter 2026‑7, Laws of Florida, with various provisions taking effect on different dates), enacting some of the most consequential changes to Florida’s land use and development framework in recent years. The Bill narrows local government discretion over […]

Areas of Focus: Government Law & Lobbying, Florida Legislative Lobbying

Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Florida CS/CS/SB 1134

04.24.2026
Kathleen “Katie” O. Berkey, AICP

On April 23, 2026, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Florida CS/CS/SB 1134 (Chapter 2026-43) into law effective January 1, 2027, addressing official actions of local governments, primarily concerning diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. Key provisions include: Prohibiting counties and municipalities from Funding or promoting DEI programs or initiatives; and Taking any official action...

Areas of Focus: Government Law & Lobbying, Florida Legislative Lobbying

Women’s History Month–Meet the Women of Becker: Kathleen “Katie” O. Berkey

03.06.2026
Kathleen “Katie” O. Berkey, AICP

In honor of Women’s History Month, Becker is celebrating the incredible women whose expertise, leadership, and dedication elevate both our firm and the clients we serve. This year, we’re proud to highlight the achievements of longstanding women team members across various departments, recognizing their impact and contributions over the years. […]

Areas of Focus: Government Law & Lobbying, Florida Legislative Lobbying

Becker & Poliakoff Ranked Among Top 50 Corporate Philanthropists in South Florida by South Florida Business Journal

11.17.2025
Donna DiMaggio BergerKathleen “Katie” O. Berkey, AICPJennifer Bales DrakeBernie FriedmanJosé K. FuentesYolanda Cash JacksonSteven B. LesserRobert J. ManneJon PolenbergGary C. RosenLee A. Weintraub

Delivering exceptional service to our clients and giving back to our community are core to who we are at Becker. We’re proud to share that the South Florida Business Journal has recognized Becker among the Top 50 Corporate Philanthropists in South Florida. Becker attorneys and professionals are heavily involved in […]

Becker’s Kathleen O. Berkey and Jennifer Bales Drake Recognized as Florida Trend Legal Elite NOTABLE – Real Estate / Land Use Attorneys

09.03.2025
Kathleen “Katie” O. Berkey, AICPJennifer Bales Drake

Becker is pleased to announce that shareholders Kathleen O. Berkey and Jennifer Bales Drake were recently recognized in the 2025 Florida Trend Legal Elite NOTABLE Real Estate / Land Use Attorneys –special section. This list features 92 attorneys from across Florida who have demonstrated exceptional legal expertise and leadership in […]

Areas of Focus: Land Use & Zoning, Real Estate