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," and outlines specific actions that are prohibited, including making false statements about military service, awards, or qualifications for personal gain. 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 governing bodies withhold a portion of the salary-related payments to satisfy the penalties and allows the Attorney General to refer unpaid fines to collection agencies. The bill aims to enhance accountability and integrity among public officials regarding their military service claims. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 399 Filed: 112.317