House Bill 567 amends various sections of Florida Statutes to enhance transportation funding, project management, and public safety measures. Key provisions include the requirement for the Department of Revenue to make monthly distributions from certain tax proceeds to the State Transportation Trust Fund and the introduction of a new category of parking permits for expectant mothers. The bill also mandates counties to provide annual project data to the Department of Transportation, establishes new regulations for project concept studies, and modifies contractor obligations, including the requirement for audited financial statements for contracts over $250,000. Additionally, it sets forth competitive bidding requirements and addresses utility relocation procedures during emergencies.

The bill further streamlines the process for communications service providers to place facilities in public rights-of-way, prohibiting municipalities from imposing excessive fees or documentation requirements. It also introduces criteria for the placement of small wireless facilities and outlines the responsibilities of metropolitan planning organizations in developing comprehensive transportation plans. Notably, the bill removes certain requirements for the Metropolitan Planning Organization Advisory Council and allocates funding for workforce development in the road and bridge industry. Lastly, it establishes a pilot program for the Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority to evaluate alternative airport permitting procedures, with a review process involving local governments and a report on its effectiveness due by December 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
H 567 Filed: 212.20, 331.3051, 334.044, 334.065, 337.19, 339.65, 339.84, 202.20, 331.310, 610.106