Bill > H0755

This bill makes two key changes related to areas of critical state concern, which are specific geographic regions identified by the state as having unique environmental or historical significance and requiring special planning and regulation. First, it exempts certain entities, specifically those working on property within an area of critical state concern that is subject to a long-term ground lease of 99 years or more with Habitat for Humanity International, Inc. (or its affiliates), from the requirement to provide payment and performance bonds before starting construction work, provided that the leasehold interest is subject to claims by lienors (individuals or companies with a legal right to a property to secure payment of a debt) as defined in Chapter 713 of Florida Statutes, but the underlying real property itself is not subject to such liens. Second, it extends the timeframe during which a portion of the Florida Forever program's funds, a state initiative for land acquisition and conservation, must be spent on acquiring land within the Florida Keys Area of Critical State Concern, pushing the deadline from the 2026-2027 fiscal year to the 2035-2036 fiscal year, ensuring continued investment in this ecologically sensitive region.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

Natural Resources & Disasters Subcommittee (House)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/755