The bill introduces a new section, 112.3131, to the Florida Statutes, which prohibits candidates, elected public officers, appointed public officers, and public employees from knowingly misrepresenting their military service records, awards, or qualifications for material gain. It defines terms related to military service and outlines specific actions that are considered violations, such as falsely claiming to be a servicemember or wearing unauthorized military insignia. Violators of this section are subject to penalties as specified in section 112.317.

Additionally, the bill amends section 112.317 to clarify that civil penalties imposed by the Commission on Ethics are considered delinquent if not paid within 90 days. It requires the Attorney General to determine if an individual owing a penalty is a current public officer or employee and to notify the appropriate governing body to withhold a portion of their salary to satisfy the penalty. The bill also allows the Attorney General to refer unpaid fines to a collection agency and outlines the collection methods that may be used. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 348 Filed: 112.317
S 348 c1: 112.317
S 348 er: 112.317