FL H1251

Local governments are prohibited from using public funds to hire lobbyists for representation before the state legislative or executive branch, and lobbyists are prohibited from accepting such funds

Elected local officials cannot spend or contract to spend public funds on any purpose not specifically itemized in the local government's budget

The prohibition does not apply to hiring in-house staff by local governments or elected officials

Any person may file a complaint with the Commission on Ethics alleging violations, and the commission must investigate and report findings to the Senate President, House Speaker, and Governor and Cabinet

Creates Section 11.063, F.S., titled the "Federalism Protection Act," effective July 1, 2026