The bill establishes a new section, 112.3131, in the Florida Statutes, which prohibits candidates, elected public officers, appointed public officers, and public employees from knowingly misrepresenting their service records, awards, or qualifications related to the Armed Forces of the United States. It defines key terms such as "Armed Forces of the United States," "material gain," and "servicemember." The bill outlines specific actions that are prohibited, including making false statements about military service, wearing unauthorized uniforms or insignia, and misrepresenting military honors or qualifications. Violators of this section would be subject to civil penalties as outlined in section 112.317.

Additionally, the bill amends section 112.317 to require the Attorney General to determine if individuals owing penalties are current public officers or employees and to notify the appropriate governing bodies of the penalties owed. It mandates that these bodies withhold a portion of the salary-related payments to satisfy the penalties and allows for the retention of a portion of these payments for administrative costs. The Attorney General is also authorized to refer unpaid fines to collection agencies and to collect penalties within a specified timeframe. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 348 Filed: 112.317