The bill amends Florida Statutes concerning the management and rehabilitation of brownfields, primarily by removing the requirement for property owners to provide information about institutional controls to local governments for mapping purposes, as well as eliminating local government mapping requirements. It mandates that sites receiving a site rehabilitation completion order without institutional controls be removed from the registry of contaminated sites. Additionally, the bill revises the conditions for applicants to claim tax credits for rehabilitating contaminated sites, specifying application timeframes and adjusting eligibility criteria. It also introduces new provisions to streamline the tax credit application process and clarifies definitions related to brownfields.

Moreover, the bill allows local governments to designate brownfield areas within specific redevelopment zones and expands eligibility for participation in the brownfield program to include local governmental entities. It emphasizes community engagement by requiring notice to neighbors and public comment opportunities. The bill also outlines criteria for obtaining a "No Further Action" status for brownfield sites within larger contaminated areas and clarifies liability protections for rehabilitation efforts. Furthermore, it facilitates economic development incentives by allowing referendums for tax exemptions in enterprise zones or brownfield areas and prioritizes funding for agricultural education facilities in designated areas. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 736 Filed: 376.78, 196.1995, 288.1175