FL H0139

Creates s. 112.3242, F.S., prohibiting state agencies and independent contractors from taking adverse personnel actions (discharge, suspension, demotion, salary reduction, etc.) against employees who disclose ethics violations or breaches of public trust to the Commission on Ethics

Protects employees who file written complaints under oath with the Commission on Ethics or provide information to investigators, provided they did not participate in the violation being reported

State agency employees may file complaints with the Florida Commission on Human Relations and pursue administrative remedies or civil action within 180 days; local public employees have 60 days to file with local governmental authorities if administrative procedures exist

Available relief includes reinstatement to same or equivalent position, restoration of fringe benefits and seniority, compensation for lost wages and benefits, reasonable attorney fees, and injunctive relief

Amends s. 112.324, F.S., requiring the Commission on Ethics to deliver copies of ethics complaints to agencies investigating retaliation claims or to complainants upon written request, with certain redactions while exemptions apply

Effective date: July 1, 2026