Bill > S1538

This bill modifies Florida's contracting regulations to prohibit governmental entities from entering into contracts with companies that have ownership interests from certain foreign countries of concern, specifically China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela, and Syria. The bill requires entities bidding on government contracts to sign an affidavit confirming they have no ownership connections to these countries' governments. Contractors found in violation can face significant penalties, including civil penalties equal to twice the contract amount, being barred from future government contracts for up to 5 years, losing licenses or credentials, and being placed on a suspended vendor list. The bill removes previous language about "controlling interest" and instead focuses on any ownership interest by foreign governments. The legislation aims to protect government procurement processes and potentially sensitive information by restricting business dealings with entities connected to countries deemed potentially adversarial. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving businesses time to adjust to the new requirements. The Attorney General is authorized to bring civil actions against entities that violate these provisions, and any collected penalties will be deposited into the General Revenue Fund.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/1538