This bill establishes new protections for employees who disclose certain information to the Commission on Ethics, creating a new section, 112.3242, in the Florida Statutes. It prohibits agencies and independent contractors from taking retaliatory actions against employees for reporting violations related to public trust or ethical standards. The bill defines key terms such as "adverse personnel action," "agency," "employee," and "independent contractor," and outlines the types of information that can be disclosed, which includes violations of conduct standards and constitutional provisions. It also specifies that protections extend to individuals who submit complaints or provide information during investigations.

Additionally, the bill allows employees or job applicants to file complaints and seek remedies if they experience adverse actions due to their disclosures. It outlines the process for local public employees to file complaints with local authorities and pursue civil actions if necessary. The bill mandates that relief for successful claims may include reinstatement, compensation for lost wages, and coverage of legal costs. Importantly, it establishes an affirmative defense for employers if they can demonstrate that the adverse action was based on grounds unrelated to the employee's protected disclosures. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.