This bill amends section 112.312 of the Florida Statutes to expand the definition of "relative" for public officers and employees. The new definition now includes foster parents and foster children, specifically stating that a relative can be an individual who was a legally recognized foster parent of the public officer or employee while they were a minor, or a current or former legally recognized foster child of the public officer or employee. This change aims to clarify the relationships that fall under the term "relative" in the context of ethics for public employees.

Additionally, the bill reenacts section 1001.421, which pertains to gifts received by district school board members, to incorporate the updated definition of "relative" from section 112.312. It maintains the prohibition against school board members and their relatives from soliciting or accepting gifts exceeding $50 from individuals or entities doing business with the school district. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 572 Filed: 112.312