FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apopka, FL – In a historic show of bipartisan unity, Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 999 into law on May 27, 2025, making Florida the largest U.S. state to officially recognize gold and silver as legal tender. The legislation passed unanimously in both chambers—113–0 in the House and 38–0 in the Senate.
The signing ceremony, held in Apopka, featured State Representative Doug Bankson (R-Apopka), the bill’s sponsor, and Kevin Freeman, host of Economic War Room and author of Pirate Money, who both spoke in support of the measure.
“This law restores the constitutional foundation of sound money,” said Rep. Bankson. “It gives Floridians a voluntary option to protect their wealth and engage in free-market transactions using precious metals.”
“This is a breakthrough for monetary freedom,” added Freeman. “Gold and silver are now more than just investments—they are real, usable money in Florida.”
Recognizes gold and silver as legal tender for payment of debts, public charges, taxes, and dues, consistent with Article I, Section 10 of the U.S. Constitution.
Exempts qualifying gold and silver coins and bullion from sales tax, regardless of transaction size or type.
Authorizes voluntary use of precious metals in commerce, requiring agreement by both parties.
Directs the Florida CFO to establish rules for implementation by November 1, 2025, ahead of the law’s effective date, July 1, 2026.
Governor DeSantis emphasized the legislation as part of Florida’s broader agenda for financial sovereignty and protection against inflation.
“HB 999 enables Floridians to transact in gold and silver—restoring their role as trusted, inflation-resistant money,” said DeSantis. “Florida is leading the nation in preparing for economic uncertainty.”
The law also opens the door for licensed money service businesses to transmit and accept payment in precious metals, potentially enabling integration with digital payment systems.
HB 999 builds on years of advocacy to align state policy with constitutional money standards and marks a new chapter in the fight for fiscal and monetary integrity.
Rep. Doug Bankson represents Florida’s 39th District and has championed constitutional and economic liberty issues throughout his legislative career.
Kevin Freeman is a financial warfare expert, best-selling author, and advocate for monetary reform. His book Pirate Money outlines state-based solutions for restoring the use of gold and silver as transactional money.
Florida’s Department of Financial Services will begin rulemaking to support practical adoption of the law. Citizens and businesses may begin preparing to use precious metals for legal payments once the law takes effect in July 2026.