The bill CS/HB 1321 introduces significant amendments to Florida's higher education governance, focusing on the composition and appointment processes for the Board of Governors and state university boards of trustees. It establishes residency requirements for board members, mandating that they be U.S. citizens and either state residents or graduates of state universities, effective January 6, 2027. The bill also revises term limits, allowing members to serve a maximum of two consecutive terms, and requires the formation of presidential search committees for the appointment of university presidents. Additionally, it streamlines the appointment and evaluation processes by removing the requirement for Board of Governors' confirmation of presidential selections and mandates that state universities post their admission criteria online.

Moreover, the bill emphasizes transparency and accountability by requiring detailed information on textbooks and instructional materials, including costs, to be provided by state universities and colleges. It establishes a presidential succession plan for interim appointments and prohibits public officers from discussing presidential vacancies with board members or employees. The bill also creates the Institute for Freedom in the Americas at Miami Dade College to promote democracy and freedom in the region, while prohibiting institutions from imposing graduation requirements that conflict with specific educational guidelines. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with certain provisions becoming effective immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
H 1321 Filed: 1001.64, 1001.70, 1001.706, 1001.71
H 1321 c1: 1001.64, 1001.70, 1001.71, 1004.098, 1004.89, 1011.47
H 1321 e1: 1001.64, 1001.70, 1001.71, 1004.098, 1004.89