The bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes to enhance affordable housing initiatives and streamline regulations in areas of critical state concern, particularly the Florida Keys. It authorizes local governments to adopt ordinances providing ad valorem tax exemptions for portions of properties used for affordable housing, specifying that these properties must meet certain conditions, including being part of multifamily projects with a minimum number of units. Additionally, the bill introduces an exemption from payment and performance bond requirements for contractors working on properties under long-term leases with Habitat for Humanity in designated areas of critical state concern.

Furthermore, the bill extends specific Florida Forever appropriations for land purchases in the Florida Keys and revises local comprehensive plan requirements to ensure compliance with hurricane evacuation clearance times. It mandates that certain local governments maintain building permit allocation systems and provides for the distribution of 500 building permit allocations over ten years, with a significant portion designated for workforce housing. The term "workforce housing" is defined within the bill, emphasizing the need for these units to be occupied by households earning a majority of their income from employment 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