This bill establishes residency and citizenship requirements for various public officers and employees in Florida. Specifically, it mandates that, starting October 1, 2025, secretaries and executive directors of departments, chief administrative officers of certain state government units, members of commissions and licensing boards, and other appointed state officials must be United States citizens and residents of Florida. Additionally, beginning January 6, 2027, members of the boards of trustees for state universities and the Board of Governors of the State University System must also meet these citizenship and residency criteria. If any of these requirements are not met, the respective office will be deemed vacant.

The bill also amends existing laws regarding political activities and travel reimbursements for state employees. It revises the language in sections related to political activities, allowing for more flexibility in interpretation, and prohibits career service employees from using their positions to influence political outcomes. Furthermore, it restricts travel reimbursements for certain positions, stating that individuals in specified roles cannot be reimbursed for travel expenses between their residence and official headquarters. The bill also introduces a new definition of "office" for the purposes of the state constitution, clarifying the criteria for what constitutes an office in state, county, or municipal government. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1760 c1: 1001.71
S 1760 c2: 110.233, 112.061