The proposed bill, titled the "Refrigerant Safety and Agricultural Continuity Act," aims to support Florida's agricultural food processing and cold chain industries during the transition from R-410A refrigerants to A2L refrigerants, such as R-454B. It establishes a new section in Florida Statutes (604.74) that allows these industries to continue using R-410A refrigerants until January 1, 2035, or until the Legislature decides otherwise. The bill emphasizes the importance of ensuring safety, economic stability, and operational continuity during this transition, as the shift to A2L refrigerants could pose risks and significant costs to these sectors.

Additionally, the bill mandates the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to maintain records of R-410A equipment installations and to provide an annual report to the Legislature starting January 1, 2027. This report will include safety performance data for A2L refrigerants, the availability of compliant equipment, and recommendations for the transition. The bill also provides immunity from liability for businesses using R-410A refrigerants in compliance with the new regulations until a safe alternative is fully available. The Department is authorized to coordinate with educational institutions and industry associations to enhance training programs for handling A2L refrigerants and may adopt rules to implement the provisions of this act. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.