FL H0233

Establishes qualified blind trusts for public officials (Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Cabinet members) to eliminate conflicts of interest by preventing knowledge or control of trust assets.

Requires all financial disclosures by public officers and employees to be made in writing on Commission on Ethics-prescribed forms; prohibits officers from acting in ways that suggest they can be improperly influenced.

Increases civil penalties for ethics violations from $10,000 to $100,000 and establishes criminal penalties (first-degree misdemeanor) for knowingly failing to file required disclosures within 90 days.

Strengthens voting conflict of interest requirements by requiring state and local public officers to publicly disclose interests of themselves, principals, relatives, and business associates within 15 days after voting on conflicted matters.

Expands gift restrictions on reporting individuals and procurement employees, prohibiting gifts exceeding $100 from vendors and lobbyists doing business with their agencies, with required quarterly reporting of gifts valued over $25.