The proposed bill establishes new sections in Florida Statutes that prohibit counties and municipalities from taking any official actions related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Specifically, it creates sections 125.595 and 166.04971, which outline that local governments cannot adopt ordinances, resolutions, or policies that classify individuals based on race, color, sex, national origin, gender identity, or sexual orientation, and promote preferential treatment based on these classifications. Violations of this prohibition by county commissioners or municipal governing body members are classified as misfeasance or malfeasance in office, and residents may bring legal action against the respective local government in circuit court.
The bill also provides for retroactive applicability, meaning it will apply to all official actions taken by counties and municipalities before July 1, 2025. It allows for the court to award declaratory and injunctive relief, damages, and costs to the prevailing party, but prohibits the award of attorney fees to the local government if they prevail. The bill defines "diversity, equity, and inclusion" in the context of the prohibited actions, ensuring clarity on what constitutes a violation. The effective date for this legislation is set for July 1, 2025.