This bill proposes extensive amendments to Florida statutes concerning the Department of State, particularly focusing on notary commissions and library services. It repeals sections 113.01, 113.02, and 113.03, which previously detailed fees for commissions issued by the Governor, and amends section 113.051 to state that commissions cannot be issued until the oath of office is filed. Additionally, it modifies sections 117.01 and 117.225 to eliminate the commission fee for notaries public, especially for veterans with disabilities. The bill also introduces a definition for "harmful to minors" and requires the Secretary of State to ensure that grant funds for libraries and cultural programs adhere to this definition, thereby enhancing oversight and compliance.

Moreover, the bill restructures the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, changing the title of the chief cultural officer to "chief arts and culture officer" and adjusting the council's membership to include 15 members with specific qualifications. It streamlines the grant application process, allowing appointed reviewers to conduct reviews instead of panels, and emphasizes public comment before grant decisions. The bill also establishes new requirements for the Florida Historical Commission regarding historic preservation grants, modifies the management of historical sites and cemeteries, and ensures that funds are allocated based on criteria that prioritize public benefit. Overall, the bill aims to improve the effectiveness and accountability of arts, culture, and historical preservation funding in Florida.

Statutes affected:
S 1524 Filed: 257.031, 257.17, 257.191, 257.23, 257.34, 257.42, 265.284, 265.286, 265.703, 265.803, 267.0612, 267.075, 267.21
S 1524 c1: 113.01, 113.02, 113.03, 113.051, 117.01, 117.225, 117.295, 257.031, 257.17, 257.191, 257.23, 257.34, 257.42, 265.284, 265.286, 265.703, 265.803, 267.0612, 267.075, 267.21