House Bill 701 amends various sections of Florida Statutes concerning water management districts, introducing new definitions and requirements to improve oversight and accountability. The bill defines "expenditure" and mandates the Commission on Ethics to investigate lobbyists or principals making prohibited expenditures, with a report to the Governor. It prohibits certain individuals from making or accepting expenditures and removes the requirement for legislative approval before establishing subdistricts or basins in specific water management districts. Additionally, it sets new quorum requirements for governing boards, necessitating a majority vote for actions taken. The South Florida Water Management District is also required to provide detailed reports on the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan, including estimated costs and performance indicators.

Furthermore, the bill establishes maximum millage rates for different water management districts and mandates the submission of preliminary budgets by January 15 each year, which must include justifications for proposed expenditures and a capital improvement plan. It introduces new requirements for the Legislative Budget Commission's review of district budgets, emphasizing transparency in budget allocations and project funding. The bill also establishes a structured process for project proposals addressing flooding and sea level rise, requiring detailed submissions from various entities and ensuring a minimum 50 percent cost share for projects. The total funding proposed each year must be at least $100 million, with provisions for basin taxes to finance functions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 701 Filed: 373.0693, 373.079, 373.470, 373.503, 373.535, 373.6075