The bill amends Florida Statutes concerning higher education, specifically addressing the transfer of assets and liabilities from the University of South Florida Sarasota/Manatee to New College of Florida. It introduces a new section, 1004.342, which sets forth definitions and requirements for the transfer, mandating its completion by October 30, 2026. New College of Florida is required to make monthly payments to the University of South Florida until the transfer is finalized, and a written joint transfer agreement must be established to specify the assets and liabilities involved. Additionally, a facility use agreement is necessary to prioritize access to educational facilities for students from the University of South Florida who were admitted prior to the transfer date.

The bill also revises existing statutes by removing the requirement for the Florida Center for the Partnerships for Arts Integrated Teaching to be located at the University of South Florida Sarasota/Manatee. It modifies provisions regarding tuition and fees, allowing state university boards to set out-of-state fees for nonresident students and lifting certain restrictions on fee adjustments. The bill includes provisions for immunity from liability for the boards of trustees involved in the transfer process and establishes a repeal date for the new section in 2028, while ensuring that asset transfers remain unaffected. Additionally, it introduces amendments related to university fees and funding, including adjustments to fee increase caps and the use of state funds for Title IX compliance, ultimately aiming to enhance flexibility in university funding and fee structures.

Statutes affected:
H 5601 Filed: 1001.706, 1004.344, 1011.45, 1013.01