FL S0438

Creates s. 287.0577, F.S., establishing requirements for small business participation in state contracting and defining "small business" as an independently owned, Florida-domiciled entity with 50 or fewer full-time employees and specified revenue/net worth limits.

Requires state agencies to avoid contract bundling where practicable and to conduct market research and provide written summaries explaining necessity before issuing bundled contract solicitations.

Mandates agencies award at least 35 percent of total contract dollars annually to small businesses either directly or as subcontractors, with vendors required to use small businesses for at least 35 percent of gross contract amounts.

Prohibits agencies, general contractors, and prime contractors from requiring bid bonds, performance bonds, or other sureties for contracts not exceeding $500,000.

Requires the rules ombudsman in the Executive Office of the Governor to establish a reporting system tracking small business participation metrics and submit annual compliance reports to the Governor, Cabinet, and Legislature by February 1 each year.