The bill amends several sections of Florida law to restrict governmental entities from contracting with entities connected to designated "foreign countries of concern," which now include the People's Republic of China, the Russian Federation, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, the Republic of Cuba, the Venezuelan regime of Nicolás Maduro, the State of Qatar, and the Syrian Arab Republic. Key provisions include prohibiting contracts for services or the purchase of specific products, such as computers and printers, from these entities, and requiring bidders to submit affidavits affirming they do not meet the criteria for such connections. The bill also introduces penalties for violations, including civil penalties and ineligibility for future contracts.

Additionally, the bill specifies that laboratories cannot use operational or research software produced by these foreign countries or their state-owned enterprises. It provides protections for licensees who fail to obtain assurances regarding indirect ownership interests in entities with ties to these countries. The effective date for these provisions is set for July 1, 2025, with certain requirements beginning on October 15, 2025. The bill aims to enhance national security by limiting the influence of foreign entities in Florida's governmental contracting processes.

Statutes affected:
H 1543 Filed: 408.810
H 1543 c1: 408.810
H 1543 c2: 287.138, 316.0078, 408.810