House Bill 925 establishes the "State Foreign Adversary Registration Act," aimed at increasing transparency regarding agents representing foreign adversaries and terrorist organizations in Florida. The bill introduces new definitions, such as "foreign terrorist organization" and "information service employee," and requires these agents to file a comprehensive registration statement with the Attorney General, detailing their business relationships, financial transactions, and political activities. Registrants must provide extensive information about their affiliations and update their registration statements every six months. The bill also mandates that registration statements be executed under oath by the majority of the entity's officers or board of directors, and it clarifies that the Attorney General's acceptance of these filings does not imply approval of their content.
Additionally, the bill enhances regulations on critical infrastructure and communications, prohibiting foreign adversaries from accessing such infrastructure and requiring companies to conduct background screenings for employees with access. It establishes the Florida Secure Communications Act, which mandates the removal of prohibited equipment from communications providers and imposes penalties for non-compliance. The legislation also creates the Council on Pacific Conflict to assess risks related to potential threats in the Pacific theater and mandates annual risk assessments and audits of state supply chains. Overall, House Bill 925 aims to bolster Florida's security framework against foreign influence and enhance the state's preparedness for potential conflicts.
Statutes affected: H 925 Filed: 943.03