HB 871 Summary

• Creates the "Free Enterprise Protection Act" by establishing section 760.65, Florida Statutes, prohibiting governmental entities from taking discriminatory action against business entities.

• Defines "discriminatory action" to include altering tax treatment, denying tax benefits, withholding grants or contracts, or denying access to property, facilities, speech forums, or charitable fundraising campaigns.

• Prohibits government entities from taking discriminatory action against businesses based on the business entity's internal policies (including personnel and employee benefit policies compliant with state law) or exercise of constitutional rights including freedom of expression and free exercise of religion.

• Applies to all state government branches, departments, agencies, and political subdivisions, as well as officials acting under color of state law.

• Takes effect July 1, 2018.