The bill, HB 7031, amends various sections of Florida Statutes to enhance tax regulations, particularly focusing on the tourist development tax, property assessments, and tax credits aimed at economic development and community support. It revises the authorized uses of the tourist development tax, allowing counties to allocate funds for lifeguard services on certain beaches, and introduces new provisions for assessing tangible personal property in the citrus industry. The bill also establishes a Rural Community Investment Program, promoting investments in rural areas, and introduces tax exemptions for affordable housing projects, child care facilities, and various consumer goods. Additionally, it modifies the assessment process for agricultural lands and citrus packinghouse equipment, ensuring compliance and reporting requirements are met.

Furthermore, the bill includes significant changes to tax credit processes, allowing for a first-come, first-served approval system and establishing caps on the total amount of tax credits available. It mandates that charitable organizations receiving funding for programs working with children conduct background screenings and submit annual audits. The legislation also addresses tax exemptions for educational institutions and modifies tax structures related to aviation fuel and natural gas. Overall, HB 7031 aims to streamline tax regulations, enhance compliance, and promote economic growth while ensuring accountability in the use of tax credits and public funds.

Statutes affected:
H 7031 Filed: 203.0011, 212.05011, 212.0515, 212.0506, 212.06, 212.08
H 7031 e1: 125.0104, 163.3206, 193.4516, 193.461, 194.013, 194.014, 194.171, 196.012, 196.1978, 196.198, 201.15, 206.9925, 206.9942, 206.9955, 207.003, 207.005, 212.04, 212.05, 212.054, 212.0598, 212.06, 212.0602, 212.08, 212.12, 212.13, 213.053, 213.37, 215.22, 220.02, 220.03, 332.007, 332.009, 339.0801, 376.3071, 341.840, 343.58, 402.62, 420.50871, 550.0951, 551.104, 551.106, 561.121, 624.509, 849.086, 1002.395
H 7031 er: 125.0104, 163.3206, 193.4516, 193.461, 194.013, 194.014, 194.171, 196.012, 196.1978, 196.198, 201.15, 206.9925, 206.9942, 206.9955, 207.003, 207.005, 212.04, 212.05, 212.054, 212.0598, 212.06, 212.0602, 212.08, 212.12, 212.13, 213.053, 213.37, 215.22, 220.02, 220.03, 332.007, 332.009, 339.0801, 376.3071, 341.840, 343.58, 402.62, 420.50871, 550.0951, 551.104, 551.106, 561.121, 624.509, 849.086, 1002.395