FL H0713

Requires merger or dissolution of dependent special districts created by special act to be effectuated only by further act of the Legislature, unless the district is inactive.

Allows inactive dependent and independent special districts to be dissolved by special act without a referendum.

Establishes procedures for voluntary merger of contiguous independent special districts through joint merger plans initiated by governing bodies or qualified electors (requiring 40% petition signatures).

Requires referendum approval in each merging district before merger takes effect; restricts merged districts from increasing powers, financing, or ad valorem tax rates during transition period until Legislature approves unified charter.

Allows involuntary merger of independent special districts only with legislative special act approval and referendum by affected electors or landowners; prohibits merger of inactive independent districts without referendum.