The bill amends Florida's administrative procedures law to enhance the rulemaking process and improve transparency. It introduces a definition for "technical change," which refers to minor corrections that do not alter the substance of a rule, and prohibits rules from including automatic expiration provisions unless expressly authorized by law. Agencies are required to publish a notice of rule development within 30 days of a relevant legislative act and ensure that materials incorporated by reference in rules are available in a text-searchable electronic format. Additionally, the bill mandates that agencies provide specific information in their notices, including a summary of estimated regulatory costs and contact information for agency representatives, while also allowing for public inspection of incorporated materials.

Further changes include the requirement for agencies to publish notices of correction for technical changes and to submit annual reports on rule reviews. The bill streamlines the rulemaking process by eliminating certain deadlines for rule development and proposed rule publication, while also requiring agencies to hold public workshops if requested by affected individuals. It establishes new requirements for emergency rules, including a maximum effective period of 90 days and a process for repeal before expiration. The bill also mandates that agencies review existing rules every five years and report findings to the legislature, ensuring accountability and responsiveness to public input. Overall, these amendments aim to create a more efficient and transparent regulatory environment in Florida.

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