Bill > S0768

This bill aims to restrict business and technological interactions with certain foreign countries deemed of concern, specifically targeting laboratories and healthcare licensees. In the first section, the bill prohibits laboratories from using any operational or research software for genetic sequencing that is produced by countries including China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela, and Syria, or by state-owned enterprises or companies from these nations. The second section modifies licensure requirements for healthcare providers, mandating that entities with controlling interests cannot have business relationships with these foreign countries of concern. The bill provides protections for licensees who cannot fully verify indirect interest holders, as long as they do not have actual knowledge of non-compliance. The bill defines key terms like "business relationship" and introduces the concept of "indirect interest holders" as those owning less than 5% of a licensee or related entities. By establishing these restrictions, the legislation seeks to limit potential national security risks and foreign influence in critical sectors like healthcare and research. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, giving businesses and organizations time to adjust to the new requirements.

Justice

Health Policy (Senate), Judiciary (Senate)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/768