The bill amends Florida's administrative procedures law to enhance the rulemaking process by introducing new definitions and requirements aimed at improving transparency and public engagement. A key addition is the definition of "technical change," which refers to minor corrections that do not affect the substance of a rule. The bill prohibits rules from including automatic expiration provisions unless explicitly authorized by law and mandates that agencies publish a notice of rule development within 30 days of relevant legislative acts. It also outlines requirements for incorporating materials by reference, ensuring electronic submission and public access, and establishes a framework for agencies to review existing rules with annual reporting to the Legislature.

Additionally, the bill revises timelines for notices related to rule development and proposed rules, requiring agencies to publish a notice of proposed rules within 180 days of the last notice of rule development. It emphasizes the need for public workshops if requested by affected individuals and mandates that proposed rules include specific information such as regulatory costs and agency contact details. The legislation also introduces new requirements for emergency rules, including publication in the Florida Administrative Register and a maximum effective period of 90 days unless certain conditions are met. Overall, these amendments aim to streamline the rulemaking process while ensuring accountability and responsiveness to the needs of smaller entities and the public.

Statutes affected:
S 108 Filed: 120.55
S 108 c1: 120.55
S 108 e1: 120.545, 120.55
S 108 er: 120.545, 120.55