The proposed bill, titled the "Broadcast Freedom Protection Act," aims to safeguard the independence of broadcasters and the freedom of the press by prohibiting elected and appointed officials from using their authority to influence the airing of political advertisements, particularly those related to statewide ballot initiatives. It establishes new legal provisions under section 112.3262 of the Florida Statutes, which define key terms and outline the prohibited actions of governmental officials. Specifically, officials are barred from compelling or coercing broadcasters to air or refrain from airing political ads, intimidating broadcasters, or threatening to withhold state benefits or initiate regulatory actions based on their decisions regarding such advertisements.

Violations of these provisions are classified as a third-degree felony, with potential penalties including removal from office and disqualification from future positions. The bill also empowers the Commission on Ethics to investigate complaints related to these violations and allows individuals or entities affected by such actions to file complaints or seek injunctive relief in court. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.