The bill CS/CS/HB 1169 amends various sections of Florida Statutes to enhance transparency and accountability within 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 any lobbyist or principal involved in prohibited expenditures, with a report to the Governor. The bill requires a quorum for the governing board to conduct official business and mandates detailed reporting on the Everglades restoration plan, including cost estimates and project statuses. It also prohibits the use of state funds for certain purposes unless specifically appropriated and allows districts to levy ad valorem taxes for capital improvement projects, contingent upon voter approval.

Additionally, the bill requires preliminary budgets to include detailed analyses of fiscal resources and expenditures related to water supply, quality, flood protection, and natural systems. It mandates a separate section in the South Florida Water Management District's budget for the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan, detailing project titles, costs, timelines, and funding sources. The Legislative Budget Commission is granted authority to reject certain budget proposals, ensuring comprehensive financial information is provided. The act emphasizes legislative oversight, requiring districts to respond to comments on their budgets and establishing stricter conditions for budget proposal rejections. The bill is 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