The 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 and various National Security Agency-designated universities and Florida College System institutions, starting in the 2026-2027 academic year. It includes components such as increasing the number of internships, providing training for federal security clearance readiness, offering CompTIA Security+ certification, and facilitating job placements in high-demand cybersecurity roles.
Additionally, the bill mandates the Department of Commerce to submit annual reports to the Governor and the Legislature, detailing student participation in the program, certification achievements, and employment outcomes in cybersecurity positions. The program is set to expire on October 1, 2031, and is appropriated $11.9 million in recurring funds from the General Revenue Fund to support its establishment. The act is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026.