The bill amends section 267.21 of the Florida Statutes to enhance the Historic Cemeteries Program by requiring local governments to approve applications from historic African-American cemeteries that wish to change the land use category and zoning district of excess vacant land. This provision is aimed at allowing these cemeteries to sell or enter into contracts to sell such land, with the proceeds intended to fund their long-term maintenance and upkeep. The new legal language specifies that the local government must approve these applications to align the land use designation and zoning with the most permissive category and district adjacent to the excess property.

The bill recognizes the efforts of the University of South Florida's Black Cemetery Network in reclaiming and preserving the histories of underrepresented African-American cemeteries. By facilitating the sale of excess land, the bill aims to ensure that grants provided through the Historic Cemeteries Program can be effectively utilized for initial preservation efforts, thereby supporting the long-term sustainability of these important historical sites. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.