Florida limits local diversity programs starting January 1, 2027

Counties and cities cannot fund, promote, or take official action on covered diversity efforts. Related rules and programs are void, and funding for related offices or staff is prohibited. Covered efforts involve workforce makeup, special benefits, or training and activities tied to race, color, sex, ethnicity, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Hiring that complies with discrimination laws is excepted. Actions required by state or federal law and materials explaining discrimination laws remain allowed. Exceptions allow specified holidays, observances, and memorial activities; certain nonprofit single-sex homeless programs and youth services; and permits issued without favoring a message and public safety services. The restrictions cannot conflict with specified laws protecting sex-based facilities, domestic violence shelters, education, and health services, including health care tied to race or ethnicity. Bodies made up of nonelected volunteers are exempt. Their basic administrative support is also exempt unless a government employee works solely on that support. These restrictions take effect January 1, 2027.

Residents may sue their county or city for violating the restrictions. Officials who violate them while acting through their public office commit misconduct in office. Residents may bring these lawsuits against the county or city where they live. A court may declare the government's legal duties, order it to stop a violation, and award damages and court costs. These enforcement rules take effect January 1, 2027.

Contract and grant applicants must certify that they do not and will not use county or city money to require people working for them to accept, study, or receive instruction using covered diversity materials. The requirement covers employees, contractors, volunteers, vendors, and agents. It uses the same definition of diversity, equity, and inclusion as the county and city restrictions. Applicants must give the certification before receiving the contract or grant. The law takes effect January 1, 2027. The certification rule covers diversity officer contracts existing on that date and other contracts signed or renewed after that date.