FL S0002

Creates the Local Government Emergency Bridge Loan Program within the Department of Economic Opportunity to provide interest-free loans to counties and municipalities affected by Hurricane Ian or Hurricane Nicole located in federally designated disaster areas.

Eligible local governments must demonstrate substantial loss of tax revenues and need for financial assistance to continue operations; loans are disbursed as lump sums based on demonstrated need.

Loan terms are one year with possible extension of up to 6 months; funds may only be used for continuing operations or disaster-related operational modifications, not capital improvements or infrastructure repairs.

Appropriates $50 million in nonrecurring funds for fiscal year 2022-2023, with any unexpended balance continuing to fiscal year 2023-2024; loan approvals authorized through the end of fiscal year 2023-2024.

Appropriates $650 million from the General Revenue Fund to the Emergency Preparedness and Response Fund for emergency preparation and response activities; program expires June 30, 2027.