House Bill 5009 amends various sections of Florida Statutes to enhance government accountability and oversight, primarily through the establishment of the Florida Accountability Office. This new office will replace the Auditor General in conducting audits and compliance checks for local governmental entities, charter schools, and district school boards. The bill outlines the responsibilities of the Florida Accountability Office, which include reviewing audit reports, ensuring compliance with financial reporting requirements, and compiling annual reports on significant findings. It also introduces penalties for willful non-compliance with audit requests and establishes whistleblower protections, allowing employees to report violations confidentially. Additionally, the bill revises the legislative budget request process, requiring state agencies to submit requests by specific deadlines and ensuring that budget actions are subject to notice and review procedures. It modifies the process for emergency fund appropriations and allows for immediate budget amendments in response to exceeding inmate population projections within the Department of Corrections. The Auditor General and other committees are tasked with reviewing audit requirements and providing recommendations by October 1, 2026. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen financial oversight and accountability within Florida's government, ensuring transparency and adherence to established standards.

Statutes affected:
H 5009 Filed: 11.26, 11.40, 11.42, 11.45, 11.47, 14.32, 112.3188, 216.011, 216.134, 216.177, 216.192, 216.231, 216.262, 252.36, 20.055, 760.06