Bill > S0600

This bill revises the Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) within the Department of Economic Opportunity. The key provisions are: - Expands the legislative intent of REDI to focus on improving the quality of life and economic conditions in rural areas, including job creation, infrastructure, workforce development, and access to healthcare. - Revises the duties and membership of REDI to include representatives from various state agencies and the private sector. The membership is designed to reflect the diversity of Florida's business community and economic development goals for rural areas. - Allows the Governor to designate rural areas of opportunity, which establishes these areas as priority assignments for REDI and allows the Governor to waive certain economic development incentive requirements for these areas. - Requires REDI to submit an annual report on its activities, projects, and accomplishments to the Department of Economic Opportunity, the Governor, and the Legislature. - Makes various other changes to statutes related to the review of grant and loan applications, financial match requirements, and other programs to better support economic development in rural communities.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Business and Industry, Government Affairs

Agriculture (Senate)

http://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2017/600