The proposed bill establishes a new section, 112.3242, in the Florida Statutes, aimed at protecting employees from adverse personnel actions taken by agencies or independent contractors in retaliation for disclosing certain information to the Commission on Ethics. The bill defines "adverse personnel action" to include actions such as discharge, suspension, or demotion, and outlines the types of violations that can be reported, including breaches of public trust or violations of the State Constitution. It also specifies that the information disclosed must be made to the Commission on Ethics and provides protections for employees who submit complaints or provide information during investigations.

Additionally, the bill allows employees or applicants for employment to file complaints and pursue administrative remedies or civil actions within specified timeframes. Local public employees are also granted the right to file complaints with local governmental authorities under certain conditions. The bill outlines the relief available to employees who successfully challenge adverse actions, including reinstatement, compensation for lost wages, and payment of attorney fees. It also establishes an affirmative defense for employers if they can prove that the adverse action was based on grounds unrelated to the protected disclosure. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.