This bill establishes the clerk of the circuit court as the county auditor, granting them the authority and responsibility to oversee the use of county funds and prevent illegal expenditures. It creates a new section, 28.51, in the Florida Statutes, detailing the powers of the county auditor, which include conducting audits, accessing county records, issuing subpoenas, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. The bill also mandates that the county auditor publish audit reports and allows third-party financial institutions and contractors to provide necessary records without additional legal processes. Furthermore, the clerk is given legal standing to pursue the recovery of unlawfully expended public funds.

Additionally, the bill introduces section 28.52, which allows the county auditor to obtain accreditation as a county inspector general, enabling them to conduct investigations into fraud, waste, and abuse related to county funds. The inspector general is tasked with coordinating investigations, managing whistleblower complaints, and collaborating with law enforcement when necessary. The bill amends section 129.09 to clarify the responsibilities of the clerk acting as the county auditor, specifically prohibiting them from signing illegal warrants and establishing penalties for violations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 730 Filed: 129.09