The bill amends Florida Statutes to change the regulatory framework for nonpublic religious postsecondary educational institutions. Specifically, it removes the exemption that previously allowed religious colleges to operate without oversight from the Commission for Independent Education. The new section, s. 1005.12, establishes requirements for these institutions to operate without licensure, including the submission of a sworn affidavit to the commission that verifies compliance with educational standards and consumer practices. The commission is tasked with providing annual written notices of exemption from licensure to compliant institutions and has the authority to verify compliance through various methods, including cooperation with religious nongovernmental education associations.

Additionally, the bill outlines consequences for noncompliance, requiring institutions that fail to meet the established standards to either submit corrective documentation, apply for a license, or cease operations within a specified timeframe. It also introduces criminal penalties for employees or agents of noncompliant institutions 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 act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

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