Bill > S0214

This bill aims to improve funding mechanisms for special districts, which are local government entities that provide specific services like water or wastewater. Firstly, it revises existing laws to allow state agencies to directly pay invoices for special districts that are located within counties or municipalities designated as "rural communities" or "rural areas of opportunity" (areas with specific economic development needs), or independent special districts providing water and wastewater services in such areas, especially when these districts demonstrate financial hardship. This change is intended to expedite payments and alleviate financial strain on these districts. Secondly, the bill broadens the definition of a "rural community" to explicitly include municipalities and special districts within qualifying rural counties, as well as independent special districts that provide water and wastewater services in rural areas of opportunity, thereby expanding eligibility for certain economic development initiatives.

Budget and Finance

Appropriations Committee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development (Senate), Fiscal Policy (Senate)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/214