This bill establishes the Office of Secure Florida within the Department of Commerce, which will be responsible for administering and enforcing compliance with employment authorization laws and regulations regarding the purchase and registration of real property in Florida by foreign principals. The bill amends section 20.60 of the Florida Statutes to include this new office as the eighth division of the Department of Commerce. The Office of Secure Florida will oversee the implementation of E-Verify and related employment laws as well as regulations concerning foreign property ownership.

Additionally, the bill appropriates $1,725,423 in recurring funds from the General Revenue Fund for the 2024-2025 fiscal year to support the operations of the Office of Secure Florida, including funding for salaries, expenses, and contracted services. It also includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the act is found invalid, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable. The act will take effect upon becoming law.

Statutes affected:
S 10A Filed: 20.60