This bill establishes the Florida Museum of History at the Town of Eatonville by creating a new section in the Florida Statutes. It authorizes a partnership between the Department of State, the Orange County Commission, the Orange County public school system, and the University of Central Florida to design, construct, operate, and manage the museum. The museum is required to be a multipurpose cultural arts and history facility, featuring at least 100,000 square feet of exhibition space, a performing arts center, a banquet facility, and various other amenities. An advisory board of experts will be appointed to guide the design and operation of the museum, ensuring it meets educational and cultural objectives.
The bill outlines specific duties for the governing board and the operating board of directors, including the development of a marketing plan and recommendations for educational materials. Funding for the museum's construction will come from a combination of local and state appropriations, with a maximum of $75 million in state funding to be matched by local and philanthropic contributions. Additionally, an endowment will be established to support the museum's collections. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.