summary
Introduced
10/07/2025
10/07/2025
In Committee
01/29/2026
01/29/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
An act relating to local government enforcement actions; creating ss. 125.676 and 166.0413, F.S.; providing legislative findings and intent; defining the terms "county" and "enforcement action"; prohibiting certain enforcement actions by counties and municipalities; authorizing persons or business entities subject to such actions to submit a request for review; requiring counties and municipalities to review such actions and respond within a specified time period; requiring counties and municipalities to establish and maintain rules; authorizing filing of legal action and providing legal remedies in certain circumstances; requiring that such action be filed within a specified time period; providing for certain protections from retaliation; authorizing filing of certain complaints in specified circumstances; providing for preemption; providing an effective date.
AI Summary
This bill, titled the Local Government Regulatory Accountability Act, aims to ensure fair and transparent enforcement of local regulations by counties and municipalities, recognizing that arbitrary or unreasonable actions can hinder economic growth. It defines "county" as a county's governing body or employee and "enforcement action" as any regulatory action taken by a county or municipality, excluding certain activities like proprietary functions, law enforcement, or budget adoption. The bill prohibits counties and municipalities from initiating enforcement actions deemed arbitrary, unreasonable, and not authorized by an ordinance by a court. It establishes a process where individuals or businesses affected by such actions can request a review from the local government, which must respond within 30 days; failure to do so allows for legal action. If a court finds an enforcement action to be arbitrary or unreasonable, it can award attorney fees, costs, damages up to $50,000, and issue injunctions. The bill also includes whistleblower protections for those reporting such actions and preempts any local rules that conflict with its provisions, taking effect on October 1, 2026.
Committee Categories
Government Affairs, Justice
Sponsors (2)
Other Sponsors (2)
Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee (House), Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee (House)
Last Action
Bill added to Special Order Calendar (2/25/2026) (on 02/19/2026)
Official Document
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