This bill amends Florida Statutes to enhance procurement compliance by allowing the Department of Management Services to grant governmental entities access to electronic systems that provide background information on vendors seeking to do business with the state. Specifically, a new paragraph (c) is added to subsection (6) of section 287.042, which outlines the department's powers and duties. Additionally, the bill redesignates existing subsections in section 287.138 and introduces a new subsection (5) that permits governmental entities to use information, including that obtained from the electronic systems, to verify the accuracy of affidavits submitted by vendors.

Furthermore, if a governmental entity finds that an affidavit is not true and accurate, it may determine that the vendor is not responsible or responsive, which would disqualify them from award consideration. Importantly, such determinations regarding the accuracy of affidavits or vendor responsibility are not subject to protest under section 120.57(3). The bill also specifies that any penalties collected under the amended provisions must be deposited into the General Revenue Fund. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law.