The bill amends sections 252.35 and 252.381 of the Florida Statutes and creates a new section, 468.634, to enhance building inspections during emergencies. It authorizes the Governor to permit individuals to work in specific inspection roles, such as building code inspector and plumbing inspector, provided they meet certain qualifications and have completed designated training programs. The Division of Emergency Management and the Department of Business and Professional Regulation are tasked with developing a Florida Building Code training program, while local governments with amendments to the Florida Building Code must create training programs relevant to their jurisdictions.

Additionally, the bill requires counties and municipalities to develop poststorm permitting plans that include special procedures for building permits and inspections following hurricanes or tropical storms. These plans must ensure adequate personnel for postdisaster tasks, anticipate the need for supplemental personnel, and include training requirements to comply with local floodplain management. The bill emphasizes the importance of expediting recovery and rebuilding efforts through effective training and resource management in the aftermath of natural disasters. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 1109 Filed: 252.35, 252.381