The bill establishes the Florida Museum of History, empowering the Department of State to collaborate with county commissions in Orange, St. Johns, and Miami-Dade Counties, along with designated local entities, for the design, construction, operation, and management of the museums. Each museum will be owned and operated by the local entity appointed by the respective county commission. An Advisory Committee will be created to guide the planning and construction, consisting of members with expertise in various relevant fields. Local entities will be responsible for procuring architectural services, developing collections management policies, and ensuring the museums operate as hybrid models involving nonprofit entities and local governments. The bill also mandates a minimum allocation of $1 million from the Legislature to each county commission for financial feasibility studies related to the museum locations.
Additionally, the bill expands the focus of the Florida Museum of History to include significant aspects of the state's heritage, such as tourism, agriculture, military presence, and space exploration. It requires the creation of exhibition halls dedicated to themes like African American history, Hispanic contributions, and the Civil Rights Movement, while also emphasizing the importance of showcasing notable individuals and events that have shaped Florida's cultural landscape. Specific exhibition spaces will be outlined for various historical narratives, including the contributions of Henry Morrison Flagler and the history of baseball in Florida. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, reflecting a commitment to preserving and promoting Florida's rich and diverse history.