The bill proposes the dissolution of 35 soil and water conservation districts in Florida, effective December 31, 2025, with their assets and liabilities being transferred to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. It also clarifies that municipalities cannot take over services from independent special fire control districts in annexed areas, ensuring these districts retain their service provision and boundaries. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that limit the liability of independent special districts that allow public access to their lands for recreational purposes, stating they owe no duty of care to individuals using these areas. It revises the legislative intent for these districts to emphasize public access while establishing conditions under which they are not liable for injuries on their lands.

Moreover, the bill mandates a performance review of independent special districts classified as safe neighborhood improvement districts by September 30, 2025, replacing previous deadlines for other districts. It allows these districts to require criminal history screenings for employees and contractors in critical positions, outlines the process for background checks, and amends the qualifications for supervisors of soil and water conservation districts to include being registered voters and meeting specific agricultural criteria. The bill also establishes a process for the Commission on Ethics to investigate supervisor eligibility complaints and includes provisions for monitoring the dissolution of the abolished districts, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 973 Filed: 189.053, 582.19, 582.20
H 973 c1: 189.053, 582.19, 582.20