The bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes to enhance restrictions on contracting with entities from 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. It prohibits governmental entities from entering into contracts for services or purchasing certain products from these entities, particularly if they have any ownership interest or if the products are provided by third parties with such interests. Additionally, entities submitting bids or proposals must sign an affidavit confirming they do not meet the criteria for being associated with a foreign country of concern.

The bill also introduces specific provisions regarding the use of operational or research software in laboratories, prohibiting software produced by foreign countries of concern. It provides protections for licensees who fail to obtain assurances regarding indirect ownership interests in their entities. The Attorney General is granted authority to enforce these provisions, with penalties for violations including civil penalties and ineligibility for future contracts or licenses. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

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