The proposed bill establishes the Condominium and Homeowners Association Economic Crime, Fraud, and Corruption Investigation Pilot Program within the Department of Legal Affairs in Florida. This program is designed to investigate economic crimes, fraud, and corruption associated with condominium and homeowners associations. It allows the department to contract with private entities or hire personnel for its objectives and mandates that complaints be submitted to the Office of the Condominium and Homeowners Ombudsman for review and further investigation. The pilot program will be funded through the Division of Florida Condominiums, Timeshares, and Mobile Homes Trust Fund, based in Miami-Dade County, and is set to expire on October 2, 2030, unless extended by the Legislature.

Additionally, the bill amends various statutes to enhance oversight and compliance within condominium and homeowners associations. Key amendments include the establishment of a searchable, cloud-based database for essential association information, the expansion of the Ombudsman's role to oversee both condominium and homeowners associations, and the clarification of definitions related to assessments and amenity fees. The bill also revises the process for imposing fines and suspensions on association members, ensuring transparency and fairness in handling violations. It introduces provisions for tenants regarding delinquent assessments and clarifies the liability of parcel owners for unpaid assessments, ultimately aiming to improve accountability and protect residents within community associations.

Statutes affected:
S 368 Filed: 718.111, 718.1224, 718.5011, 718.5012, 718.509, 720.302, 720.305, 720.3085, 720.3086, 336.125, 558.002, 617.0725, 697.07, 702.10, 718.116