The proposed bill establishes a new part IV of chapter 692 of the Florida Statutes, titled "Protection of State Critical Infrastructure from Foreign Entities," which includes section 692.21. This section aims to safeguard Florida's critical infrastructure by prohibiting certain contracts and agreements between specified entities and foreign principals that would allow foreign adversaries to access or control critical infrastructure. It defines key terms, outlines the prohibitions on contracts, and establishes penalties for violations, including a misdemeanor charge for individuals or entities that breach these regulations.
Additionally, the bill mandates that entities with existing contracts with foreign principals must register with the Department of Commerce starting January 1, 2026, and provides for civil penalties for non-compliance. It also requires an affidavit from entities transferring control of critical infrastructure, confirming that the buyer is not a foreign principal. Furthermore, the bill prohibits the use of computer software from companies based in foreign countries of concern within critical infrastructure in Florida. The Department of Commerce is tasked with adopting rules to implement these provisions, and the act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: H 925 Filed: 943.03