The bill amends Florida Statutes to clarify the jurisdiction of the Public Service Commission (PSC) over water and wastewater systems, particularly concerning nonprofit organizations. It introduces new definitions, including "Governing board" and "Qualifying nonprofit organization," which outlines the criteria these organizations must meet to be exempt from PSC regulation. The bill revises the existing exemption for nonprofit organizations, specifying that only those meeting the new definition will qualify. Additionally, it establishes a procedure for the PSC to determine whether an organization qualifies for this exemption and allows organizations to petition for reinstatement of their status after a specified waiting period.

Furthermore, the bill creates a new section, 367.24, detailing the process for disqualification from exempt status, including the commission's authority to initiate proceedings and the criteria it will consider in its determinations. It mandates that the PSC adopt rules to implement these changes and sets a timeframe for this rulemaking. The bill also makes conforming amendments to other sections of Florida Statutes to align with these changes, and it is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 1319 Filed: 367.022, 288.0655, 624.105