The bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes concerning health facilities, primarily by expanding the definition of "health facility" to include not only private corporations but also non-profit entities like limited liability companies that provide health services. It enhances the authority's powers by allowing it to make secured or unsecured loans to health facilities for project costs, as well as to refund or refinance existing debts. The authority can also lease projects to health facilities under specific agreements and requires these facilities to maintain and operate the projects. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for the authority to issue revenue bonds for refunding purposes and to collect fees related to the projects, ensuring that the financing and operational processes for health facilities are streamlined. Moreover, the bill CS/HB 229 includes new provisions that allow trust agreements or resolutions to incorporate loan payments as part of the pledged revenues for bond repayment. It clarifies that bondholders' rights and remedies can be enforced through various legal means, including actions related to loan agreements. The bill also modifies the financing language for projects outside the local agency's jurisdiction, removing previous restrictions on financing for not-for-profit corporations under common control with health facilities. The updated definition of "health care facility" broadens the range of services and properties related to health care, ensuring all necessary certifications are obtained prior to bond issuance. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 229 Filed: 154.205, 154.213, 154.225, 154.235, 154.219, 154.221, 154.229, 154.247
H 229 c1: 154.205, 154.213, 154.225, 154.219, 154.221, 154.229, 154.247