This bill amends Florida Statutes to enhance regulations on contracting with foreign countries of concern, specifically targeting entities that may have ownership interests in products or services provided to governmental entities. It removes the definition of "controlling interest" and prohibits governmental entities from entering into contracts for certain products, such as computers and videoconferencing devices, if the government of a foreign country of concern has an ownership interest in the manufacturer or bidder. Additionally, it requires entities submitting bids or proposals to sign an affidavit confirming that no foreign government has ownership interests in them or their subsidiaries.

The bill also introduces penalties for violations, including civil penalties and ineligibility to enter into contracts with governmental entities for up to five years. It mandates that the Attorney General can take civil action against violators, and any collected penalties will be deposited into the General Revenue Fund. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025, and the bill includes provisions for the Department of Management Services to adopt rules for implementation, including the affidavit form required from bidding entities.

Statutes affected:
S 1538 Filed: 287.138, 316.0078