This bill establishes new protections for employees and certain individuals who disclose information regarding violations of ethics to the Commission on Ethics. It creates a new section, 112.3242, in the Florida Statutes, which prohibits agencies and independent contractors from taking retaliatory actions against employees for such disclosures. The bill defines key terms, including "adverse personnel action," and outlines the types of information that can be disclosed, which must include any violations of ethical standards or constitutional provisions. It also specifies that employees and individuals who file complaints or provide information during investigations are protected under this section.

Additionally, the bill allows employees or applicants for employment to file complaints and pursue administrative remedies or civil actions if they experience adverse actions due to their protected disclosures. It outlines the relief available to those who prevail in such actions, including reinstatement, compensation for lost wages, and payment of attorney fees. The bill amends existing law to require the Commission on Ethics to deliver complaints to the relevant agency conducting investigations and to certain individuals upon request, while maintaining confidentiality protections. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.