Bill > H1571

This bill prohibits counties and municipalities in Florida from taking any official actions related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), including adopting ordinances, resolutions, rules, regulations, programs, or policies that classify individuals based on race, color, sex, national origin, gender identity, or sexual orientation in a way that promotes preferential treatment. The legislation applies to both county and municipal governments, making it illegal for local government officials to create or vote for such policies, with violations considered misfeasance or malfeasance in office. Residents of a county or municipality can file a lawsuit against their local government for violating these provisions, and courts may award declaratory and injunctive relief, damages, and costs, with attorney fees going to the prevailing party (except when the local government wins). The bill includes an exception for actions required to comply with federal or general laws and applies retroactively to all official actions taken before July 1, 2025. The legislation defines "diversity, equity, and inclusion" specifically as policies that classify and provide preferential treatment to individuals based on certain personal characteristics, with the intent of restricting local governments' ability to implement DEI-related initiatives.