The bill CS for SB 110 First Engrossed seeks to bolster support for rural communities in Florida by establishing the Office of Rural Prosperity within the Department of Commerce. This office will oversee various initiatives, including the Renaissance Grants Program and the Public Infrastructure Smart Technology Grant Program, aimed at enhancing economic development and infrastructure in rural areas. The bill mandates that local governments in these regions receive preference for technical assistance funding and requires collaboration with the Office of Rural Prosperity when awarding certain funds. Additionally, it revises the distribution of sales and use tax revenue to include transfers to fiscally constrained counties, ensuring that these areas receive necessary financial support for public safety, infrastructure, and other essential services.

Furthermore, the legislation introduces several new programs and funding mechanisms, such as the Rural Access to Primary and Preventive Care Grant Program and the Rural Incentive for Professional Educators Program, which provide financial assistance to healthcare providers and educators in rural areas. It also establishes the Rural Community Development Revolving Loan Fund and the Rural Infrastructure Fund to support economic viability and infrastructure improvements. The bill emphasizes the importance of strategic planning, accountability, and collaboration among state agencies and local governments to address the unique challenges faced by rural communities, ultimately aiming to improve living conditions and foster economic growth in these regions.

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