The proposed bill establishes a new section, 377.817, in the Florida Statutes, which prohibits governmental entities from adopting or requiring net-zero policies, expending government funds to support such policies, or imposing taxes, fees, penalties, or assessments related to net-zero initiatives. The bill defines key terms such as "net-zero policy," "carbon-intensive activity," and "governmental entity," and declares that net-zero policies and related carbon taxes or emissions trading programs are detrimental to the state's energy security and economic interests. It mandates that the Department of Environmental Protection require an annual affidavit from governmental entities to ensure compliance with these prohibitions.

Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes to ensure that comprehensive plans and zoning regulations comply with the new prohibitions outlined in section 377.817. It clarifies that municipalities may not levy taxes or assessments that would advance net-zero policies, and it specifies that the prohibitions apply to actions proposed by governmental entities on or after July 1, 2026. The bill is set to take effect on that date, reinforcing the state's stance against net-zero initiatives and related financial mechanisms.

Statutes affected:
S 1628 Filed: 166.021, 166.201