Bill > S0288

This bill amends Florida's laws regarding rural electric cooperatives by prohibiting these cooperatives from imposing certain fees, bylaws, or policies that would restrict energy production types or fuel sources. Specifically, the bill prevents cooperatives that sell electricity at retail from adopting fees like lot fees or developer fees, or implementing policies that would limit the types of energy production or fuel sources used by entities listed in section 366.032(1)(b)-(e) of Florida statutes. The bill also protects consumers' rights to use appliances like stoves or grills that utilize these energy types, defining "appliance" as a device manufactured to use energy and subject to specific building and fire prevention code requirements. By expanding the existing statutory language, the bill aims to ensure that rural electric cooperatives cannot unnecessarily restrict energy choices or impose additional fees on consumers or developers. The provisions of this bill will take effect on July 1, 2026, giving stakeholders ample time to prepare for the new regulations.

Health and Social Services

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/288