This bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes related to employment rights, specifically focusing on the definitions and protections surrounding retaliatory personnel actions. It revises the definition of "independent contractor" to clarify that individuals classified as employers under section 448.101 cannot be considered independent contractors. Additionally, the definitions of "appropriate governmental agency" and "retaliatory personnel action" are updated to enhance clarity. The bill also establishes that an employee must prove claims of retaliatory actions by clear and convincing evidence and places the burden of proof on the employee if the employer presents alternative grounds for the action.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that courts must award reasonable attorney fees and costs to the prevailing party in cases of retaliatory personnel actions, rather than leaving it to the court's discretion. It specifies that if an employer has another statutory remedy available for conduct that would otherwise violate this act, the remedies under that statute will take precedence. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1776 Filed: 112.3187, 448.102, 448.103, 448.104, 448.105