FL H7003

Expands conflict of interest rules by deeming contractual relationships held by business entities as held by public officers when the officer holds material interest in or manages the entity.

Requires governing board members of special districts and water management districts to complete 4 hours of annual ethics training beginning January 1, 2019, with specific course content requirements covering ethics violations, conflicts, financial disclosure, and advisory opinions.

Requires elected mayors and governing body members of municipalities with $10 million or more in annual revenue to file full and public disclosure of financial interests with the Commission on Ethics.

Creates Local Government Lobbyist Registration System requiring lobbyists to register with the Commission on Ethics before lobbying governmental entities effective October 1, 2019, with registration fees not exceeding $20 per principal per county and civil penalties up to $500 for first violations.

Requires the Department of Financial Services to file an annual verified report with the Legislature and Commission on Ethics by December 1 showing total revenues for each municipality over prior 3 fiscal years and timely filing of financial reports.