The proposed bill establishes Section 112.3242 of the Florida Statutes, aimed at protecting employees from retaliatory actions by agencies or independent contractors for disclosing certain information to the Commission on Ethics. It defines key terms such as "adverse personnel action," "agency," "employee," and "independent contractor," and explicitly prohibits agencies and independent contractors from dismissing, disciplining, or taking any adverse action against employees who report violations of ethical standards or the public trust. The bill outlines the nature of the information that can be disclosed, the parties to whom it should be reported, and the protections afforded to those who submit complaints or provide information during investigations.

Additionally, the bill provides a framework for employees and applicants to file complaints and seek remedies, including the option to pursue civil actions within specified timeframes. It mandates that relief for successful claims may include reinstatement, compensation for lost wages, and coverage of legal costs. The bill also includes provisions for local public employees to file complaints with local authorities and outlines the necessary administrative procedures. Importantly, it establishes that it is an affirmative defense for employers to demonstrate that any adverse action was based on grounds unrelated to the protected disclosures. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.