The bill amends Florida Statutes to change the regulatory framework for nonpublic religious postsecondary educational institutions. It removes the exemption that previously allowed religious colleges to operate without oversight from the Commission for Independent Education, as specified in section 1005.06. Instead, it introduces a new section, 1005.12, which outlines the requirements for these institutions to operate without licensure. These requirements include submitting a sworn affidavit annually to the commission, detailing the institution's name, the nature of its educational programs, degree titles, program duration, and consumer practices. The commission is tasked with providing written notices of compliance and exemption from licensure, and it may collaborate with religious nongovernmental education associations to verify compliance.

Additionally, the bill establishes penalties for noncompliance, requiring institutions that fail to meet the specified standards to either submit corrective documentation, apply for a license, or cease operations within a designated timeframe. It also introduces provisions for criminal penalties for individuals who submit false affidavits. The bill aims to protect the integrity of educational credentials offered by these institutions while ensuring that they adhere to fair consumer practices. The effective date for the bill is set for October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 125 Filed: 1005.06, 553.865, 1005.03, 1005.04, 1005.21