Bill > S0860

This bill, titled the "Broadcast Freedom Protection Act," creates a new law to prevent elected and appointed government officials from using their authority to improperly influence television broadcasters' decisions about airing political advertisements, particularly those related to statewide ballot initiatives. The bill defines a "broadcaster" as any individual or entity licensed by the Federal Communications Commission to operate a TV station in Florida, and an "elected or appointed official" as anyone holding a state, county, municipal, school, or district office. The legislation prohibits such officials from compelling, coercing, or intimidating broadcasters about political ad content, threatening to withhold or grant state funding or permits, or initiating regulatory actions as a form of retaliation. Violations are considered a third-degree felony, with potential criminal penalties and the possibility of removal from office and permanent disqualification from future governmental positions. The bill empowers the Commission on Ethics to investigate complaints and allows aggrieved individuals or entities to file complaints or seek legal relief. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to protect the independence of broadcasters and the freedom of press in democratic processes.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/860