The bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes to provide specific exemptions and requirements related to areas of critical state concern, particularly focusing on the Florida Keys. It introduces a new exemption from payment and performance bond requirements for contractors working on properties within these areas if they meet certain conditions, such as being under a long-term lease with Habitat for Humanity. Additionally, the bill extends the timeline for Florida Forever appropriations for land purchases in the Florida Keys, ensuring that at least $5 million is allocated for land acquisition in this region through the 2035-2036 fiscal year.

Furthermore, the bill revises local comprehensive planning requirements in the Florida Keys, specifically addressing hurricane evacuation clearance times for permanent residents, which must not exceed 24.5 hours or 825 permit allocations. It mandates that local governments maintain building permit allocation systems and outlines the distribution of these permits among various entities, prioritizing workforce housing and affordable residences. The term "workforce housing" is defined within the bill, emphasizing the need for housing accessible to those employed in Monroe County. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 995 Filed: 196.1978, 259.105, 380.0552
H 995 c1: 259.105, 380.0552
H 995 c2: 259.105, 380.0552