This bill establishes the Office of the Homeowners Association Ombudsman within the Division of Florida Condominiums, Timeshares, and Mobile Homes, which will be funded by the Division's Trust Fund. The Governor will appoint the ombudsman, who must be a licensed attorney in Florida and will serve at the Governor's discretion. The bill outlines various restrictions on the ombudsman and office employees, including prohibitions against engaging in conflicting business activities, holding political positions, or receiving remuneration for political activities. The ombudsman will maintain a principal office and may establish branch offices with the Governor's approval.
The ombudsman is granted a range of powers and duties, including access to division records, the ability to employ staff, and the authority to prepare reports and recommendations. The bill also details the ombudsman's role in monitoring elections within homeowners associations, allowing a specified percentage of voting interests to petition for an election monitor. The ombudsman will appoint the monitor, who can be a division employee or a qualified individual, with all associated costs borne by the association. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.