The Foreign Interference Restriction and Enforcement Act aims to mitigate foreign influence in Florida's political and governmental processes by establishing new registration requirements for agents of foreign countries of concern and foreign-supported political organizations. These entities must register with the Division of Elections, providing details about their activities and financial transactions, and are subject to penalties for non-compliance. The bill also amends existing laws to prohibit public officials from accepting gifts from designated foreign terrorist organizations and mandates the Commission on Ethics to implement new ethics training focused on foreign influence campaigns. Additionally, it restricts governmental entities from contracting with foreign-controlled entities, particularly in sensitive areas like personal identifying information and critical infrastructure.

The legislation introduces new legal provisions that classify actions taken on behalf of terrorist organizations or foreign governments as felonies, with penalties specified in Florida Statutes. It also amends section 316.0078 to clarify definitions related to contracting for camera systems from specified foreign countries of concern, explicitly naming countries such as China and Russia. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and aims to enhance state security by limiting foreign influence and protecting sensitive information and infrastructure.

Statutes affected:
S 1178 Filed: 112.3142, 288.816, 288.860, 282.802, 316.0078
S 1178 c1: 112.3142, 288.816, 288.860, 692.201, 316.0078