The proposed bill establishes the Cybersecurity Experiential Internship and Clearance Readiness Program within the Department of Commerce, aimed at addressing the critical shortage of qualified cybersecurity professionals in Florida. The program will be implemented in collaboration with the Florida Center for Cybersecurity (Cyber Florida) and various designated universities and institutions, starting in the 2026-2027 academic year. It will include components such as increasing the number of cyber risk analyst internships, providing training for federal security clearance readiness, and offering CompTIA Security+ certification. The program is designed to enhance the state's cybersecurity workforce and ensure that graduates are prepared for high-demand roles in the field.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the Department of Commerce submit annual reports to the Governor and the Legislature, detailing participation in the program, certification achievements, and employment outcomes for graduates. The program is set to expire on January 1, 2032, and aims to sustain its operations through the 2030-2031 academic year. The legislative findings emphasize the importance of a robust cybersecurity workforce for state and national security, as well as the need for ongoing workforce development to meet future demands.