This bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes concerning water management districts, introducing new definitions and requirements to enhance oversight and accountability. It defines "expenditure" and mandates the Commission on Ethics to investigate lobbyists or principals making prohibited expenditures, with a report to the Governor. The bill removes the requirement for legislative approval for establishing subdistricts or basins in certain water management districts and establishes quorum requirements for governing boards, necessitating a majority vote for actions. It also requires detailed reporting on the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan, including estimated costs and performance indicators, and prohibits water management districts from using state funds for specific purposes unless appropriated.

Additionally, the bill requires each water management district to submit a preliminary budget by January 15 each year, which must include detailed justifications for proposed expenditures and a capital improvement plan. The South Florida Water Management District must include a separate section for projects under the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. The Legislative Budget Commission gains the authority to reject certain budget proposals unless specifically appropriated by the Legislature. The bill also establishes a framework for submitting projects addressing flooding and sea level rise, requiring detailed project proposals and a minimum cost share of 50%. It mandates that total funding proposed each year must be at least $100 million, with a cap of 25% for projects from water management districts, and reaffirms the authority of basin boards to levy ad valorem taxes, effective July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 1120 Filed: 373.0693, 373.079, 373.470, 373.503, 373.535, 373.6075