This bill amends sections 112.3144 and 112.3145 of the Florida Statutes to modify the penalties for late-filed disclosures or statements of financial interests. It introduces a provision that prohibits the assessment of a fine for a reporting person's first late filing if certain conditions are met, specifically if the disclosure was filed before the maximum automatic fine accrued and the individual has not previously received a waiver of an automatic fine. The bill also clarifies that this exemption applies to fines that begin to accrue after September 1, 2026.

Additionally, the bill maintains the existing structure for assessing fines for late filings, which is set at $25 per day up to a maximum of $1,500, while allowing for appeals based on unusual circumstances. The commission is tasked with notifying individuals of their filing deadlines and any assessed fines, as well as providing a process for appealing fines. The amendments aim to provide a more lenient approach for first-time offenders while still holding individuals accountable for timely disclosures.

Statutes affected:
S 1622 Filed: 112.3144, 112.3145