The bill CS/CS/CS/HB 1169 amends various sections of Florida Statutes to enhance the transparency and accountability of water management districts, particularly the South Florida Water Management District. It introduces new definitions, such as "expenditure," and mandates the Commission on Ethics to investigate lobbyists or principals making prohibited expenditures, with findings reported to the Governor. A quorum is required for the governing board to conduct official business, and a majority vote is necessary for actions taken. The bill also requires detailed reporting on the Everglades restoration plan, including costs and project statuses, and prohibits the use of state funds for certain purposes unless specifically appropriated.

Additionally, the bill allows water management districts to levy ad valorem taxes for capital improvement projects, contingent upon voter approval, and specifies maximum millage rates for various districts. It mandates that preliminary budgets include detailed sections on capital improvement plans and justifications for expenditures, while granting the Legislative Budget Commission authority to reject certain budget proposals. The bill emphasizes fiscal accountability by requiring the South Florida Water Management District to provide comprehensive analyses of its budget, including specific details on projects under the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. It also repeals Section 373.591 and includes provisions for responsible procurement practices, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1169 Filed: 373.079, 373.470, 373.503, 373.535, 373.6075, 380.095
H 1169 c1: 373.079, 373.470, 373.503, 373.535, 373.6075
H 1169 c2: 373.079, 373.470, 373.503, 373.535, 373.6075
H 1169 c3: 373.079, 373.470, 373.503, 373.535, 373.591, 373.6075