The bill CS for SB 7002 First Engrossed amends various sections of Florida Statutes concerning water management districts, introducing new definitions and requirements to enhance oversight and accountability. It defines "expenditure" and mandates the Commission on Ethics to investigate lobbyists or principals making prohibited expenditures, with a report to the Governor. The bill removes the need for legislative approval to establish subdistricts or basins and sets new quorum requirements for governing boards, requiring a majority of members to be present for official business. Additionally, it authorizes the South Florida Water Management District to acquire land for a reservoir project north of Lake Okeechobee and requires detailed annual reports on the Everglades restoration plan, including performance indicators and estimated costs.

Moreover, the bill outlines budget development processes for water management districts, requiring preliminary budgets to justify expenditures and include a capital improvement plan. It mandates that significant budget proposals exceeding certain thresholds receive legislative approval and emphasizes transparency in project funding, particularly for the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. The bill also establishes a preference for the lowest responsible bids for large projects, enhances the Statewide Flooding and Sea Level Rise Resilience Plan by requiring separate project rankings, and sets a minimum 50% cost share for projects. Tax levies within designated basins are also addressed, with specific procedures for assessment and collection. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 7002 Filed: 373.079, 373.503, 373.535, 373.6075, 380.095
S 7002 c1: 373.0693, 373.079, 373.470, 373.503, 373.6075, 380.095
S 7002 e1: 373.026, 373.0693, 373.079, 373.503, 373.6075, 380.095