CS/CS/HB 945 Summary

• Defines "emergency order" as an order or ordinance issued by a political subdivision in response to an emergency that limits rights or liberties of individuals or businesses.

• Emergency orders automatically expire 7 days after issuance but may be extended in 7-day increments for a total maximum duration of 42 days.

• Extensions of emergency orders require approval by majority vote of the political subdivision's governing body, which may convene and vote remotely through electronic means.

• The Governor or Legislature may invalidate any emergency order at any time if determined to unnecessarily restrict individual liberty.

• Political subdivisions are prohibited from issuing substantially similar orders upon expiration of an emergency order; all emergency orders must be narrowly tailored to serve a compelling public health or safety purpose.