The bill CS for SB 110 First Engrossed aims to bolster support for rural communities in Florida through the establishment of the Office of Rural Prosperity within the Department of Commerce. This office will oversee the creation of regional rural community liaison centers, administer the Renaissance Grants Program, and prioritize technical assistance funding for local governments in rural areas. Key provisions include the introduction of the Rural Access to Primary and Preventive Care Grant Program to enhance healthcare services, the Florida Arterial Road Modernization Program to improve transportation infrastructure, and the Rural Incentive for Professional Educators Program to attract educators to rural areas. The bill also mandates annual reporting on the implementation and outcomes of these initiatives to ensure accountability and effectiveness.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing statutes to enhance financial support for fiscally constrained counties, including a new provision that mandates the transfer of at least $50 million annually to these counties. It revises the criteria for determining fiscal constraints by increasing the revenue threshold and establishes the Rural Community Development Revolving Loan Fund to provide financial assistance for infrastructure projects. The legislation emphasizes collaboration among state agencies and local governments to maximize resources and improve economic vitality in rural regions. Overall, the bill seeks to address the unique challenges faced by rural communities, ensuring their growth and prosperity through targeted investments and support.

Statutes affected:
S 110 Filed: 202.18, 212.20, 215.971, 218.67, 288.007, 288.019, 288.065, 319.32, 339.0801, 395.6061, 420.9073, 420.9075, 1013.62, 1013.64, 163.3187, 212.205, 257.191, 257.193, 265.283, 443.191, 571.26, 571.265
S 110 c1: 202.18, 212.20, 215.971, 218.67, 288.007, 288.019, 288.065, 288.1226, 319.32, 339.0801, 339.2817, 339.68, 395.6061, 420.9073, 420.9075, 1013.62, 1013.64, 163.3187, 212.205, 257.191, 265.283, 443.191, 571.26, 571.265
S 110 e1: 202.18, 212.20, 215.971, 218.67, 288.007, 288.019, 288.065, 288.1226, 319.32, 339.0801, 339.2817, 339.68, 395.6061, 420.9073, 420.9075, 1013.62, 1013.64, 163.3187, 212.205, 257.191, 257.193, 265.283, 443.191, 571.26, 571.265