This bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes concerning community associations, particularly condominium and homeowners associations. It introduces a revised definition of "video conference" to enhance accessibility for unit owners during meetings and mandates that associations provide access to official records within a specified timeframe when requested by law enforcement or prosecuting agencies. The bill also establishes criminal penalties for directors or members who willfully fail to comply with record-keeping requirements. Additionally, it expands the conditions under which developers must provide turnover inspection reports and requires structural integrity reserve studies for all buildings, regardless of height, with specific qualifications for professionals conducting these studies.

Moreover, the bill facilitates electronic voting in association elections, requiring associations to set up designated channels for receiving electronically transmitted ballots, while ensuring unit owners consent to online voting. It emphasizes the fiduciary responsibilities of association officers and directors in completing and distributing the reserve study to unit owners within 45 days. The bill also clarifies definitions related to common areas and governing documents, prohibits certain clauses in association documents regarding mandatory membership fees, and aligns financial reporting requirements for developers with those of associations. The provisions of this bill are set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 1498 Filed: 718.112, 718.128, 719.106
S 1498 c1: 718.103, 718.111, 718.112, 718.128, 719.106, 720.302, 720.305, 720.3086