The bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes to enhance accountability and transparency within state agencies and their personnel. It prohibits state agencies or officers from directing settlement funds to third parties and requires them to notify the Legislature and the Attorney General of settlement terms within ten days. Additionally, it restricts state, county, and municipal officers from using their authority to solicit contributions for political purposes and revises the conditions under which travel reimbursements can be authorized for high-ranking officials, specifically prohibiting reimbursements for travel between their residence and official headquarters. The bill also introduces a new definition of "office" in the context of state government and removes the provision that prohibited state residency requirements for university board members.

House Bill 593 further amends regulations related to lobbying and university governance. It defines "expenditure" in the context of lobbying before water management districts and prohibits lobbyists and certain district officials from accepting or making expenditures. The bill establishes procedures for investigating complaints against lobbyists or principals who fail to register or provide false information, with the Governor authorized to enforce the commission's findings. Additionally, it modifies the composition and appointment process for university boards of trustees by removing the state residency requirement while emphasizing diversity and regional representation in appointments. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 593 Filed: 45.062, 112.061, 1001.71