User:Starrfruit/sandbox/1996-98 Florida Legislature

The 1996-98 Florida Legislature was the legislature of the U.S. state of Florida following the 1996 general election, during the last two years of Governor Lawton Chiles' second term. It was the 15th legislature convened under the 1968 Constitution and the 78th since statehood in 1845.

In the November 5, 1996 elections, the Republican Party increased its majority in the Senate and won control of the House of Representatives for the first time since Reconstruction. The Republican majorities in both chambers increased over the course of the term as a result of party switches and special elections.

The legislature met in four sessions: a one-day organization session on November 19, 1996; the 1997 regular session from March 4 to May 2; a special session held from November 3–7, 1997; and the 1998 regular session from March 3 to May 1.

Senate
Membership changed with two resignations. Republicans gained one seat in a special election and one via a party switch.

House of Representatives
Membership fluctuated with four resignations and four party switches. Republicans achieved a net gain of five seats: one in a special election and four when Democratic members changed party affiliation.