House Bill 1185 proposes extensive amendments to Florida's procurement processes and employment practices, particularly concerning minority business enterprises (MBEs). The bill repeals section 24.113, which relates to minority participation, and removes various requirements for reporting contracts awarded to certified MBEs, thereby streamlining the procurement process. It establishes a prohibited vendors list for public entities, barring those convicted of public entity crimes or engaged in discrimination from bidding on contracts. Additionally, the bill renames the Office of Supplier Diversity to the Office of Supplier Development, shifting its focus to assist Florida-based enterprises without the previous emphasis on racial discrimination.

The bill also modifies provisions related to health insurance benefits for firefighters and their families, expands the definition of the state group insurance program, and introduces new procurement guidelines for state agencies. It emphasizes the importance of small businesses, particularly veteran-owned enterprises, while eliminating specific references to minority status in various programs and reports. Overall, HB 1185 aims to modernize Florida's procurement and employment policies, enhance support for local businesses, and ensure compliance with equal opportunity standards, with a significant focus on streamlining processes and promoting inclusivity for small businesses.

Statutes affected:
H 1185 Filed: 24.113, 110.112, 110.12301, 110.605, 217.07, 287.084, 287.09451, 288.7015, 288.702, 288.703, 288.7031, 288.705, 16.615, 43.16, 110.105, 110.116, 110.211, 110.403, 187.201, 212.096, 215.971, 255.0992, 255.20, 282.201, 282.709, 286.101, 287.0571, 287.056, 287.059, 287.0591, 287.138, 288.0001, 288.001, 288.0065, 288.12266, 288.124, 288.776, 290.0057, 320.63, 331.351, 334.045, 338.227, 339.63, 348.754, 376.3072, 376.84, 381.986, 394.47865, 408.045, 409.901, 440.45, 489.125, 570.07, 616.255, 616.256, 625.3255, 627.351, 627.3511, 657.042, 658.67, 947.02, 947.021, 957.09, 1001.706, 1004.435, 1009.70, 1013.45, 1013.46