FL S0230

Replaces the term "handicap" with "disability" throughout Florida statutes, including the Florida Civil Rights Act and Fair Housing Act, and updates related definitions to align with federal standards

Expands the definition of "disability" to include physical or mental impairments that substantially limit one or more major life activities, records of such impairments, being regarded as having an impairment, or having a developmental disability

Grants the Florida Commission on Human Relations expanded powers, including authority to use civil discovery methods, delegate functions to employees, assess costs, charge fees, and bring actions for temporary or preliminary relief

Establishes that discriminatory compensation practices occur each time wages or benefits are paid as a result of discriminatory decisions, allowing recovery of back pay for up to 2 years preceding the filing of a charge

Creates provisions for mediation services, fee schedules for commission products and services, a direct-support organization to assist the commission, and increases the housing exemption registration fee from $20 to $75