Florida Senate Bill S1662 Analysis / Analysis

                    The Florida Senate 
BILL ANALYSIS AND FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT 
(This document is based on the provisions contained in the legislation as of the latest date listed below.) 
Prepared By: The Professional Staff of the Committee on Transportation  
 
BILL: CS/SB 1662 
INTRODUCER:  Transportation Committee and Senator Collins 
SUBJECT:  Transportation 
DATE: March 26, 2025 
 
 ANALYST STAFF DIRECTOR  REFERENCE  	ACTION 
1. Johnson Vickers TR Fav/CS 
2.     ATD   
3.     AP  
 
Please see Section IX. for Additional Information: 
COMMITTEE SUBSTITUTE - Substantial Changes 
 
I. Summary: 
CS/SB 1662 addresses various provisions relating to transportation. Specifically, the bill: 
• Provides position titles for the assistant secretaries of the Florida Department of 
Transportation (FDOT) and authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to appoint an 
Executive Director of Transportation Technology. 
• Revises provisions regarding the qualifications of Florida Transportation Commission (FTC) 
members.  
• Requires the FTC to monitor any transit entity receiving public transit block grant funding. 
• Creates the Florida Transportation Research Institute. 
• Authorizes certain space-related and commercial shipbuilding projects to receive Florida 
Seaport Transportation and Economic Development funding. 
• Requires seaports to submit semiannual reports to FDOT regarding their operations. 
• Prohibits state funding to a seaport near certain spaceport territory unless it agrees to 
specified land use requirements. 
• Repeals provisions regarding high-occupancy vehicle lanes, including a related toll 
exemption. 
• Authorizes the withholding of state transportation funds to local jurisdictions for traffic 
signals not in compliance with FDOT’s uniform system for traffic control devices. 
• Requires FDOT to certify private airports of public interest. 
• Authorizes FDOT to fund certain infrastructure projects associated with spaceports. 
REVISED:   BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 2 
 
• Requires airports to provide FDOT with the opportunity to use airport property as a staging 
area during certain declared states of emergency. 
• Authorizes FDOT to inspect commercial airport facilities. 
• Requires airports to submit annual maintenance reports to FDOT and authorizes FDOT to 
withhold capital improvement funds if an airport fails to perform routine maintenance. 
• Authorizes FDOT to fund additional aviation-related workforce development projects. 
• Makes nonhub airports subject to commercial service airport transparency and accountability 
requirements and amends such requirements for all commercial service airports. 
• Requires commercial service airports to notify FDOT after receiving certain communications 
or directives from the federal government and following issues or incidents of concern. 
• Codifies advanced air mobility into Florida law. 
• Revises FDOT’s authorization regarding public information and education campaigns. 
• Authorizes FDOT to adopt rules to comply with federal disadvantaged business enterprise 
rules. 
• Creates the Florida Transportation Academy, within FDOT, to coordinate with certain 
entities regarding workforce development. 
• Authorizes FDOT to require the modification of an existing connection to a state road due to 
safety or operational concerns. 
• Increases the size of a “small business” as it relates to FDOT’s business development 
program. 
• Repeals FDOT’s disadvantaged business enterprise program. 
• Authorizes FDOT to require a surety bond in an amount less than the awarded contract price. 
• Prohibits camping on right-of-way of the State Highway System, except on the Florida 
National Scenic Trail with the appropriate permit. 
• Prohibits FDOT from providing funds to transportation-related entities for projects or 
programs that are inconsistent with the energy policy of the state. 
• Makes permanent the authorization for the chair and vice chair of the Legislative Budget 
Commission to approve FDOT work program amendments in certain cases. 
• Repeals an obsolete report requirement related to electric vehicle charging infrastructure. 
• Removes the Legislative Budget Commission’s approval of emergency loans from the State 
Infrastructure Bank. 
• Revises and makes permanent FDOT’s Strategic Intermodal System supply chain demands 
program. 
• Revises and makes permanent the allocation of unused New Starts Transit funds to the 
Strategic Intermodal System. 
• Revises the membership of the Jacksonville Transportation Authority’s governing body. 
• Requires the Jacksonville Transportation Authority to post on information on its website 
regarding on salaries, travel, and contracts and to follow FDOT’s business development 
program. 
 
The bill has an indeterminate fiscal impact on state and local governments as well as the private 
sector. See Section V. Fiscal Impact Statement for Details. 
 
This bill takes effect July 1, 2025.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 3 
 
II. Present Situation: 
For ease or organization and readability, the present situation is discussed below with the effect 
of proposed changes. 
III. Effect of Proposed Changes: 
Florida Department of Transportation (Section 1) 
Present Situation 
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is a decentralized agency headed by the 
Secretary of Transportation.
1
 The secretary of may appoint up to three assistant secretaries who 
report to the secretary and perform such duties as the secretary assigns.
2
 FDOT employs the 
following assistant secretaries: Engineering and Operations, Finance and Administration, and 
Strategic Development.
3
 
 
Transportation Technology prioritizes technology projects to ensure enterprise coordination and 
management of technology and technology resources to deliver FDOT’s core mission. 
Transportation Technology resources bolster safety and connectivity on Florida roadways by 
aligning technology and data; automating services; creating enterprise data and technology 
standards; and enhancing cybersecurity, mitigating risks resulting from emerging technologies.
4
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to appoint three assistant secretaries: a Chief 
Operations Officer, a Chief Finance and Administration Officer, and a Chief Strategic 
Development Officer. The Secretary of Transportation may also appoint an Executive Director 
of Transportation Technology. These positions are included in Senior Management Service and 
are exempt from the Career Service System.
5
 
 
Florida Transportation Commission (Section 1) 
Present Situation 
The Florida Transportation Commission (FTC) is a nine-member citizen's oversight board for 
FDOT and expressway and regional transportation authorities. While FTC is assigned to FDOT 
for administrative and fiscal accountability purposes, it is independent of FDOT. Each FTC 
member, who must have private sector business managerial experience, is appointed by the 
Governor, subject to Senate confirmation.
6
  
 
 
1
 Section 20.23, F.S. 
2
 Section 20.23(1)(d), F.S. 
3
 Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Organizational Chart, February 2025. Available at: 
https://fdotwww.blob.core.windows.net/sitefinity/docs/default-source/humanresources/documents/fdotorganizationchart.pdf 
(last visited March 3, 2025). 
4
 FDOT, Office of Transportation Technology, https://www.fdot.gov/technology/default.shtm (last visited March 3, 2025). 
5
 This is pursuant to s. 110.205(2)(j), F.S. 
6
 Florida Transportation Commission (FTC), Summary of Organization and Responsibilities, 
http://www.ftc.state.fl.us/aboutus.shtm (last visited March 5, 2025). The FTC is codified in s. 20.23(2), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 4 
 
FTC commissioners are prohibited from, while serving on the FTC and for two years after 
leaving the FTC, having any direct or indirect interest in any contract, franchise, privilege, or 
other benefit granted or awarded by FDOT.
7
 
 
Among its statutorily required duties, the FTC must monitor the efficiency, productivity, and 
management legislatively-created expressway and transit authorities, including, the Greater 
Miami-Expressway Agency, the Tampa-Hillsborough County Expressway Authority, the Central 
Florida Expressway Authority, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority, the Mid-Bay Bridge 
Authority, South Florida Regional Transportation Authority, and the Central Florida Regional 
Transportation Authority. The FTC must also periodically review each of these entities’ 
operations and budget, acquisition of property, management of revenue and bond proceeds, and 
compliance with applicable laws and generally accepted accounting principles.
8
 
 
For purposes the Standards of Conduct for Public Officers, the term “public officer” includes any 
person elected or appointed to hold office in any agency, including any person serving on an 
advisory body.
9
 These standards of conduct include provisions relating to the solicitation or 
acceptance of gifts, doing business with one’s agency, unauthorized compensation, salary and 
expenses, misuse of public position, conflicting employment or contractual relationships, the 
disclosure or use of certain information, and postemployment restrictions.
10
 
 
FDOT administers a public transit block grant program, which provides grant funds to public 
transit providers
11
 in urbanized areas. Costs for which public transit block grants may be used for 
capital projects, service development and transit corridor projects, and operations.
12
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill repeals the statutory requirement that each FTC member possess private-sector business 
experience. In its place, the bill requires at least three FTC members to be representatives of or 
possess expertise in the higher education, transportation, or workforce development industries. 
 
The bill removes the prohibition of FTC commissioners while serving on the FTC and for two 
years afterwords, from having any direct or indirect interest in any contract, franchise, privilege, 
or other benefit granted or awarded by FDOT. In its place, the bill requires FTC commissioners 
to follow the standards of conduct for public officers or employees. 
 
The bill requires the FTC to monitor the efficiency, productivity, and management of any transit 
entity that receives public transit block grant funding. 
 
 
7
 Section 20.23(2)(g), F.S. 
8
 Section 20.23(2)(b)8., F.S. These are the agencies and authorities created in chs. 343, 348, and 349, F.S., and ch. 2000-411, 
Laws of Fla. 
9
 Section 112.313(1), F.S. 
10
 Section 112.313, F.S. 
11
 Section 341.031(1), F.S., defines the term “public transit provider” to mean a public agency providing public transit 
service, including rail authorities created in ch. 343, F.S. 
12
 Section 341.052(2), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 5 
 
Florida Transportation Research Institute (Section 1) 
Present Situation 
Florida’s colleges and universities conduct various transportation-related research projects. 
Statutorily-created transportation research entities at Florida’s public universities include the 
Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR)
13
 at the University of South Florida and the 
Implementing Solutions from Transportation Research and Evaluating Emerging Technologies 
(I-STREET) Living Lab
14
 at the University of Florida. 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill provides legislative findings that: 
• The transportation industry is critical to Florida's economic future and the competitiveness of 
Florida’s transportation industry depends upon the development and maintenance of a 
qualified workforce and cutting-edge research and innovation. 
• Florida’s transportation industry has varied and complex workforce needs ranging from 
technical and mechanical training to continuing education opportunities for workers with 
advanced degrees and certifications. 
• The timely need also exists for coordinated research and innovation efforts to promote 
emerging technologies and innovative construction methods and tools to address alternative 
funding mechanisms.  
 
The bill provides the Legislature’s intent to support programs designed to address the workforce 
development needs of Florida’s transportation industry. 
 
The bill creates the Florida Transportation Research Institute (FTRI) as a consortium of higher 
education professionals. The FTRI’s purpose is to drive cutting-edge research, innovation, 
transformational technologies, and breakthrough solutions to support workforce development 
efforts that contribute to Florida’s transportation industry. 
 
The FTRI reports to FDOT and is composed of members from the University of Florida, Indian 
River State College, the University of Central Florida, the University of South Florida, and 
Florida International University. FDOT must select a member to serve as the institute’s 
administrative lead. FDOT must periodically assess the administrative lead’s performance to 
ensure accountability and assess the attainment of performance goals. 
 
The Secretary of Transportation must appoint a representative from FDOT to serve as FTRI’s 
executive director. FDOT must coordinate with FTRI’s members to adopt policies establishing 
its executive committee and mission statement. 
 
FTRI may award grants that align with its purpose. Such grants may be directed to member and 
nonmember institutions with proven expertise relevant to the grant, including not-for-profit 
organization and institutes of higher education. FDOT may allocate funds to FTRI from the State 
 
13
 The Center for Urban Transportation Research is codified in s. 334.065, F.S. 
14
 Implementing Solutions from Transportation Research and Evaluating Emerging Technologies (I-STREET) Living Lab is 
codified in s. 334.066, F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 6 
 
Transportation Trust Fund (STTF). FTRI may expend such funds for its operations and programs 
to support research and innovation projects that provide solutions to Florida’s transportation 
needs. 
 
The FTRI must submit an annual report to the Secretary of Transportation and the FTC on its 
performance metrics. The report must include, but is not limited to, the expenditure of its 
allocated funds, ongoing and proposed research efforts, and the application and success of past 
research efforts. 
 
FDOT’s Areas of Program Responsibility (Section 1) 
Present Situation 
FDOT’s areas of program responsibility are administration, planning, modal development, 
design, highway operations, right-of-way, transportation technology, information technology, 
motor carrier weight inspection, work program and budget, comptroller, statewide corridors, 
maintenance, forecasting and performance, emergency management, safety materials, 
infrastructure and innovation, permitting, and traffic operations.
15
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill adds “operational technology” FDOT’s areas of program responsibility. The bill also 
changes “modal development” to “supply chain and modal development;” and “information 
systems” to “information technology.” 
 
Seaport Transportation and Economic Development (Sections 2 and 3) 
Present Situation 
Florida’s seaports include Jacksonville, Port Canaveral, Port Citrus, Fort Pierce, Palm Beach, 
Port Everglades, Miami, Port Manatee, St. Petersburg, Putnam County, Tampa, Port St. Joe, 
Panama City, Pensacola, Key West, and Fernandina.
16
 
 
FDOT’s Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development (FSTED) Council consists 
of the director, or the director's designee of each seaport, the Secretary of Transportation or his or 
her designee; and the Secretary of the Commerce or his or her designee.
17
 The FSTED Council 
may elect to provide administrative staffing, with the cost paid on a pro-rata basis by ports 
receiving FSTED Program funding.
18
 
 
The FSTED Council annually prepares its five-year Florida Seaport Mission Plan, providing its 
goals and objectives regarding the development of port facilities and an intermodal transportation 
system. The plan must include specific recommendations for the construction of transportation 
facilities connecting any port to another transportation mode and for the efficient, cost-effective 
development of transportation facilities or port facilities for the purpose of enhancing trade, 
 
15
 Section 20.23(3)(b), F.S. 
16
 Section 311.09(1), F.S. 
17
 Section 311.09(1), F.S. 
18
 Section 311.09(11), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 7 
 
promoting cargo flow, increasing cruise passenger movements, increasing port revenues, and 
providing economic benefits.
19
,
20
 
 
FDOT’s FSTED Program finances port transportation seaport facilities projects to improve the 
movement and intermodal transportation of cargo or passengers and support the interests, 
purposes, and requirements of the ports.
21
 FDOT must annually provide a minimum of $25 
million from the STTF to fund this program.
22
 
 
Projects eligible for FSTED Program funding include: 
• Transportation facilities within the port. 
• The dredging or deepening of channels, turning basins, or harbors. 
• The construction or rehabilitation of certain port facilities. 
• The acquisition of equipment used in the movement of cargo or passengers. 
• The acquisition of land for port purposes. 
• The acquisition, improvement, enlargement, or extension of existing port facilities. 
• Environmental protection projects meeting specified requirements. 
• Transportation facilities not otherwise included in FDOT's work program. 
• Intermodal access projects. 
• Construction or rehabilitation of port facilities in small ports under certain conditions. 
• Seaport master plan or strategic plan development or updates.
23
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill provides that the purpose of the FSTED Council is to support the growth of Florida’s 
seaports through review, development, and financing of port transportation and port facilities. 
 
The bill requires FDOT to provide administrative support to the FSTED Council on matters 
relating to the FSTED Program and the FSTED Council. The bill also repeals an existing 
statutory provision regarding the staffing of the FSTED Council. 
 
The bill makes the following additional project types eligible for FSTED Project funding: 
• Spaceport or space industry-related planning or construction of facilities on seaport property 
which are necessary or useful for advancing Florida’s space industry and provide an 
economic benefit to this state. 
• Commercial shipbuilding and manufacturing facilities on seaport property, if such projects 
provide an economic benefit to the community where the seaport is located. 
 
The bill requires that the Florida Seaport Mission Plan include specific recommendations 
regarding the construction of transportation facilities connecting any port to the space or 
aerospace industries. 
 
 
19
 Section 311.09(3), F.S. 
20
 Section 311.09(3), F.S. A copy of the 2023-2024 Seaport Mission Plan is available at: https://flaports.org/wp-
content/uploads/Florida-SMP-2024-PRINT-V2.pdf (last visited March 7, 2025). 
21
 Section 311.07(1), F.S. 
22
 Section 311.07(2), F.S. 
23
 Section 311.07(3)(b), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 8 
 
The bill requires each port member of the FSTED Council to submit a semiannual report to 
FDOT related to his or her port’s operations and support of Florida’s economic competitiveness 
and supply chain. Each report must include any information required by FDOT in consultation 
with the Department of Commerce. Reports must include, but are not limited to, the following: 
• Bulk break capacity; 
• Liquid storage and capacity; 
• Fuel storage and capacity; 
• Container capacity; and 
• A description of any supply chain disruption. 
 
Seaport Funding (Section 4) 
Present Situation 
In addition to the FSTED Program, ch. 311, F.S., relating to seaports, authorizes the following 
seaport-related funding programs: 
• The Strategic Port Investment Initiative to fund port-related strategic investments.
24
 
• The Seaport Employment Training Grant Program to provide grants to stimulate and support 
seaport training and employment programs.
25
 
• The Seaport Security Grant Program to assist seaports in implementing security plans and 
security measures.
26
 
 
Section 215.31, F.S., describes the term “state funds” as revenue, including licenses, fees, 
imposts, or exactions collected or received under Florida law by each and every state official, 
office, employee, bureau, division, board, commission, institution, agency, or undertaking of the 
state or the judicial branch. 
 
The following properties in Brevard County are included in Florida’s description of spaceport 
territory: Patrick Space Force Base, Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, John F. Kennedy 
Space Center, Space Coast Regional Airport, Space Coast Regional Airport Industrial Park, and 
Spaceport Commerce Park.
27
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill provides that as a condition of receiving a project grant under any seaport program and 
as a condition of receiving state funds, a seaport located in a county identified in the description 
of certain spaceport territory, must include in any agreement with FDOT that the seaport may not 
convert any planned or existing land, facility, or infrastructure designated for cargo purposes 
unless it obtains express approval from the Secreatary of Transportation and the Secretary of 
Commerce. 
 
The bill defines the term “cargo purposes” to include, but is not limited to, a facility, activity, 
property, energy source, or infrastructure asset that support spaceport activities. 
 
24
 Section 311.10, F.S. 
25
 Section 311.11, F.S. 
26
 Section 311.12(6), F.S. 
27
 Section 334.301(1) and (5), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 9 
 
 
High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes (Section 5 and 42) 
Present Situation 
Florida law defines the term “high-occupancy-vehicle lane” or “HOV lane” to mean a lane of a 
public roadway designated for use by vehicles in which there is more than one occupant unless 
otherwise authorized by federal law.
28
 
 
Florida law authorizes hybrid and low-emission vehicles that federal minimum fuel economy 
standards to drive in the HOV lane at any time.
29
 
 
The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) issues annual decals and 
registration certificates, reflecting the HOV lane designation, on vehicles authorized to drive in 
an HOV lane at any time. DHSMV may charge up to $5 per decal but may not exceed its costs. 
This fee is deposited in the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund.
30
 According to DHSMV, as 
of March 7, 2025, there were 25,428 active HOV decals.
31
 
 
Florida law provides a toll exemption for the use of HOV toll lanes or express lanes by vehicles 
issued HOV decals and are registered to use HOV toll lanes or express lanes and issued HOV 
decals.
32
 FDOT rules provide such a toll exemption for the I-95 Express lanes in Miami-Dade, 
Broward, and Palm Beach Counties.
33
 
 
Unlawfully driving in an HOV lane is punishable as a moving violation;
34
 however, points are 
not assessed against a driver license for this violation.
35
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill repeal s. 316.0741, F.S., repealing HOV lanes. This includes DHSMV’s authority to 
issue HOV decals and authorization for FDOT to provide toll exemption for HOV toll lanes or 
express lanes for specified vehicles. 
 
The bill removes a reference to HOV lanes in s. 322.27(3)(d), F.S., that provides that no points 
are assessed on a driver license for an HOV lane violation. 
 
 
28
 Section 316.0741(1)(a), F.S. 
29
 S. 316.0741(4), F.S. The federal minimum fuel economy standards are in 23 U.S.C. s. 166(f)(3)(B), 
30
 Section 316.0741(5), F.S. 
31
 Email from Jonas Marquez, Director of Legislative Affairs, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Re: SB 
1662 HOV Lanes, March 11, 2025. (On file with Senate Committee on Transportation). 
32
 Section 316.714(6), F.S. 
33
 Rule 14-100.004, F.A.C. 
34
 Section 316.0741(3), F.S. 
35
 Section 322.27(3)(d)8., F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 10 
 
Uniform Signals and Devices (Section 6) 
Present Situation 
FDOT is required to adopt a uniform system of traffic control devices that must be used on 
Florida’s streets and highways.
36
 All official traffic control signals or official traffic control 
devices purchased and installed by any public body or official must conform to FDOT’s 
specifications.
37
 However, upon a showing of good cause, FDOT is authorized to permit traffic 
control devices not in conformity with its uniform system.
38
 
 
FDOT may, upon receiving and investigating a report of noncompliance and after a hearing, 
direct the removal of any traffic control device not meeting the uniform system. The public 
agency with authority over the traffic control device must immediately bring the device into 
compliance or remove the device. An additional violation of this provision is cause for 
withholding state funds for traffic control purposes until the public body or official demonstrates 
to FDOT that it is in compliance.
39
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill authorizes the withholding of state funds deposited into the State Transportation Trust 
Fund for additional violations associated with uniform system for signals and devices. This 
withholding of funds is until the public body or official demonstrates to FDOT that it is in 
compliance with the uniform system. 
 
Florida Airport Licensing Law (Sections 7 and 8) 
Present Situation 
The Florida Airport Licensing Law,
40
 includes definitions for following terms: 
• Aircraft - a powered or unpowered machine or device capable of atmospheric flight, except a 
parachute or other such device used primarily as safety equipment.
41
 
• Airport - an area of land or water used for, or intended to be used for, landing and takeoff of 
aircraft, including appurtenant areas, buildings, facilities, or rights-of-way necessary to 
facilitate such use or intended use.
42
 
• Ultralight aircraft - any aircraft meeting the criteria established by part 103 of FAA.
43
 
 
Under Florida law, a proposed airport’s owner or lessee must obtain site approval from FDOT. 
FDOT must grant site approval if it is satisfied that  specific conditions are met related to safety, 
local land development or zoning regulations, and notification of affected entities.
44
 FDOT may 
 
36
 Section 316.0745(1), F.S. Rule 14-15.010, F.A.C., incorporates, by reference, the Federal Highway Administration’s 
Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices into the Florida Administrative Code. 
37
 Section 316.0745(3), F.S. 
38
 Section 316.0745(8), F.S. 
39
 Section 316.0745(7), F.S. 
40
 Sections 330.27-330.39, F.S. 
41
 Section 330.27(1), F.S. 
42
 Section 330.27(2), F.S. 
43
 Section 330.27(8), F.S. 14 C.F.R., part 103 relates to ultralight vehicles. 
44
 Section 330.30(1)(a), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 11 
 
grant site approval for a public airport
45
 only after its favorable inspection of the proposed site.
46
 
For a private airport,
47
 FDOT grants site approval after its receives documentation that the 
airport has satisfied the conditions required for site approval.
48
 FDOT may subject its site 
approval to reasonable conditions necessary to protect public health, safety, or welfare.
49
 
 
Under Florida law, before operating aircraft to or from the airport, the airport’s owner or lessee 
must receive, from FDOT, a public airport license or a private airport registration.
50
 For a public 
airport, upon granting site approval, FDOT must issue the airport’s license after its final 
inspection finds that the airport complies with all license requirements. A public-airport license 
may be subject to reasonable conditions necessary to protect public health, safety, or welfare.
51
 
For a private airport, upon FDOT granting site approval, it must provide the applicant with 
access to the state aviation facility data system to permit the applicant to complete the 
registration process. Registration is completed upon the registrant’s self-certification of FDOT-
required data.
52
 
 
Florida law does not currently address private airports of public interest. 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill amends various provisions of the Florida Airport Licensing Law. It amends the 
following definitions: 
• Aircraft to provide that the term includes, but is not limited to, an airplane, an autogiro, a 
glider, a gyrodyne, a helicopter, a lift and cruise, a multicoptor, paramotors, a powered lift, a 
seaplane, a tiltrotor, an ultralight, and a vectored thrust. 
• Airport to provide a specific area of land or water or a structure used for aircraft operations. 
The term includes, but is not limited to, airparks, airports, gliderports, heliports, helistops, 
seaplane bases, ultralight flight parks, vertiports, and vertistops. 
 
The bill defines the term “private airport of public interest” to mean a private airport engaged in 
air ambulance operations, commercial air tour operations, on-demand operations, public charter 
operations, scheduled operations, or supplemental operations. 
 
The bill defines the following terms referred to in the definition of private airport of public 
interest: 
• Air ambulance operations – a flight with a patient or medical personnel on board for the 
purpose of medical transportation. 
• Commercial air tour operation – a flight conducted for compensation or hire in an aircraft 
where a purpose of the flight is sightseeing. 
 
45
 Section 330.27(6), F.S., defines the term “public airport” means an airport, publicly or privately owned, which is open for 
use by the public. 
46
 Section 334.30(1)(b), F.S. 
47
 Section 330.27(5), F.S., defines the term “private airport” to mean an airport, publicly or privately owned, which is not 
open or available for use by the public, but may be made available to others by invitation of the owner or manager. 
48
 Section 334.30(1)(c), F.S. 
49
 Section 330.30(1)(f), F.S. 
50
 Section 330.30(2)(a), F.S.  
51
 Section 330.30(2)(a)1., F.S. 
52
 Section 330.30(2)(a)2., F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 12 
 
• Commuter operation – any scheduled operation conducted by a person operating an aircraft 
with a frequency of operations of at least five round trips per week on at least one route 
between two or more points according to the published flight schedule. 
• On-demand operation – any scheduled passenger carrying operation for compensation or hire 
conducted by a person operating an aircraft with a frequency of operations of fewer than five 
round trips per week on at least one route between two or more points according to the 
published flight schedule. 
• Public charter operation – a one-way or round-trip charter flight performed by one or more 
direct air carriers which is arranged and sponsored by a charter operator. 
• Scheduled operation – any common carriage passenger-carrying operation for compensation 
or hire conducted by an air carrier or commercial operator for which the certificate holder or 
its representative offers in advance the departure location, departure time, and arrival 
location. 
• Supplemental operation – any common carriage operation for compensation or hire 
conducted with an aircraft for which the departure time, departure location, and arrival 
location are specifically negotiated with the customer or customer’s representative. 
 
The bill repeals the definition of the “ultralight aircraft” since that term is described in FAA 
regulations. 
 
The bill requires a private airport of public interest, before allowing aircraft operations, to obtain 
a certificate from FDOT. FDOT must issue a certificate after a final inspection finds the airport 
complies with all certificate requirements. The certificate is subject to any reasonable conditions 
FDOT deems necessary to protect the public. A private airport that was engaged in operations 
associated with a private airport of public interest on or before July 1, 2025, must obtain a 
certificate by July 1, 2030. 
 
The bill authorizes FDOT, after an initial registration, to issue a certificate to a private airport of 
public interest if the airport is found, after physical inspection, to comply with all certificate 
requirements. The certificate is subject to any reasonable condition that FDOT deems necessary 
to protect the public health, safety, or welfare. A private airport of public interest’s certificate 
expires five years after its effective date. 
 
FDOT Funding of Space-Related Infrastructure Projects (Section 9) 
Present Situation 
Under Florida law, the following specified properties constitute spaceport territory: 
• Certain real property in Brevard County within Patrick Space Force Base, Cape Canaveral 
Space Force Station, or John F. Kennedy Space Center.  
• Certain real property in Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Gulf, and Walton Counties within Eglin Air 
Force Base. 
• Certain real property in Duval County is within Cecil Airport and Cecil Commerce Center. 
• Real property which is a FAA-licensed spaceport, as designated by Space Florida’s board of 
directors. 
• Certain real property in Brevard County within Space Coast Regional Airport, Space Coast 
Regional Airport Industrial Park, and Spaceport Commerce Park.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 13 
 
• Certain real property in Miami-Dade County which was formerly included in Homestead Air 
Force Base and is included within Homestead Air Reserve Base or deeded to Miami-Dade 
County or the City of Homestead. 
• Certain real property in Bay County is within Tyndall Air Force Base.
53
 
 
Florida law defines the term “critical infrastructure facility” to mean a chemical manufacturing 
facility, a refinery, an electrical power plant, a water treatment facility or wastewater treatment 
plant, a liquid natural gas terminal, a telecommunications central switching office. a gas 
processing plant, a seaport, a spaceport territory, or an airport.
54
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill authorizes FDOT to fund infrastructure projects, and projects associated with critical 
infrastructure facilities within or outside a spaceport territory as long as the project supports 
aerospace
55
 or launch support facilities
56
 within an adjacent spaceport territory. FDOT must 
consult with the Department of Commerce and the Department of Environmental Protection in 
funding these projects. These three agencies must coordinate in funding these projects in order to 
optimize the use of available funds. 
 
Florida Airport Development and Assistance Act (Sections 10-13) 
The Florida Airport Development and Assistance Act
57
 generally prohibits FDOT from 
participating in or exercising control in the management and operation of a sponsor's
58
 airport.
59
 
 
FDOT has statutory duties and responsibilities related to aviation development and assistance, 
including duty to develop, promote, and distribute supporting information and educational 
services.
60
 
 
 
53
 Section 334.304, F.S. 
54
 Section 692.201(2), F.S. This is if the facility employs measures to exclude unauthorized persons. 
55
 Section 331.303(1), F.S., defines the term “aerospace” to mean the technology and industry related to the design, 
manufacture, maintenance, repair, and operation of aircraft or any other device intended to be used or designed for flight or 
reentry, including rockets, missiles, spacecraft, satellites, space vehicles, space stations, space and aircraft facilities or 
components thereof, and related equipment, systems, facilities, simulators, programs, and activities, including, but not limited 
to, the application of aerospace and aviation technologies in air-based, land-based, space-based, and sea-based platforms for 
commercial, civil, and defense purposes. 
56
 Section 338.301(11), F.S., defines the term “launch support facilities” to mean facilities that are located at launch sites or 
launch ranges that are required to support launch activities, including launch vehicle assembly, launch vehicle operations and 
control, communications, and flight safety functions, as well as payload operations, control, and processing. 
57
 Sections 332.003-332.007, F.S. 
58
 Section 332.004(15), F.S., defines the term “sponsor” to mean any eligible agency which, either individually or jointly with 
one or more eligible agencies, submits to FDOT an application for financial assistance for an airport development project in 
accordance with this act. 
59
 Section 332.005, F.S. There are some exceptions associated with requests from the airport’s sponsor. 
60
 Section 332.006(7), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 14 
 
FDOT must prepare and continuously update its aviation and airport work program based on 
local sponsors' proposed aviation projects. FDOT’s airport work program must separately 
identify development projects
61
 and discretionary capacity improvement projects.
62
,
63
 
 
To be eligible to receive state funds, aviation projects must contribute to implementing the 
statewide aviation system plan,
64
 be consistent with and will contribute to the implementation of 
any airport master plan or layout plan, and be consistent with, to the maximum extent feasible, 
the appropriate approved local government comprehensive plans.
65
 
 
Subject to the availability of appropriated funds in addition to aviation fuel tax revenues,
66
 
FDOT may participate in the capital cost of eligible public airport and aviation discretionary 
capacity improvement projects. FDOT must prioritize its aviation funding to support: 
• Land acquisition which provides additional capacity at the qualifying international airport or 
at that airport's supplemental air carrier airport. 
• Runway and taxiway projects that add capacity or are necessary to accommodate 
technological changes in the aviation industry. 
• Airport access transportation projects that improve direct airport access and are approved by 
the airport sponsor. 
• International terminal projects that increase international gate capacity.
67
 
 
FDOT may also fund eligible projects performed by not-for-profit organizations representing a 
majority of Florida’s public airports. Eligible projects include aviation master planning, 
professional education, safety and security planning, enhancing economic development and 
efficiency at airports, or other planning efforts to improve the viability of Florida’s airports.
68
 
 
Under the State Emergency Management Act,
69
 the Governor must declare a state of emergency 
if an emergency
70
 has occurred or there is an imminent threat of an emergency. A state of 
emergency may last up to 60 days and may be renewed by the Governor.
71
 
 
 
61
 Section 332.004(4), F.S., defines the term “airport or aviation development project” to mean any activity associated with 
the design, construction, purchase, improvement, or repair of a public-use airport or portion thereof, etc. 
62
 Section 332.004(5), F.S., defines the term “airport or aviation discretionary capacity improvement projects” or to mean 
capacity improvements which are consistent, to the maximum extent feasible, with the approved local government 
comprehensive plans of the units of local government in which the airport is located, and which enhance intercontinental 
capacity at airports which meet certain requirements. 
63
 Section 332.007(2)(a), F.S. 
64
 FDOT is required to develop and periodically update the statewide aviation system plan pursuant to s. 332.006(1), F.S. 
65
 Section 332.007(5), F.S. 
66
 Section 332.007(7), F.S. Aviation fuel tax is authorized and collected pursuant to part III of ch. 216, F.S. 
67
 Section 332.007(7)(a), F.S. 
68
 Section 332.007(8), F.S. 
69
 Chapter 252, F.S. 
70
 Section 252.34(4), F.S., defines the term “emergency” to mean any occurrence, or threat thereof, whether natural, 
technological, or manmade, in war or in peace, which results or may result in substantial injury or harm to the population or 
substantial damage to or loss of property. 
71
 Section 252.36(2), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 15 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill changes the short title of the “Florida Airport Development and Assistance Act” to the 
“Florida Airport Development and Accountability Act.” 
 
The bill requires airports
72
 to, upon the Governor’s issuance a state of emergency in preparation 
for or in response to a natural disaster, at no cost to the state, provide FDOT with the opportunity 
to use any airport property that is not within an air navigation facility,
73
 to stage equipment and 
personnel to support emergency preparedness or operations. The bill provides that after 60 days 
of use as a staging area, FDOT’s further use of airport property must be pursuant to a written 
agreement between the airport and FDOT. 
 
The bill amends FDOT’s duty to develop, promote and distribute supporting information and 
educational services, to include, but not limit it to, educational services with a focus on retention 
and growth of the aviation industry workforce. 
 
The bill authorizes FDOT, when it deems it appropriate, to inspect commercial airport facilities 
that have received state funding. Such inspections include, but are not limited to, terminal 
facilities, baggage systems, and fixed guideway transportation systems.
74
 FDOT may enter into 
agreements with other state regulatory agencies, including, but not limited to, the Department of 
Business and Professional Regulation and the Department of Heath for the purpose of 
conducting such inspections. 
 
The bill requires FDOT to require each airport’s sponsor to submit a report on its annual 
comprehensive maintenance program providing details relating to maintenance and inspections 
of airport infrastructure. Each report must include a schedule of inspections, locations at which 
inspections and maintenance are performed, a list of required maintenance needs, any remedial 
action required or taken after an inspection, and details of follow-up inspections. 
 
If an airport’s comprehensive maintenance report includes evidence of the airport’s failure to 
perform routine maintenance, FDOT may withhold state funds intended capital expansion 
projects until the airport sponsor takes corrective action to address the failure. As required by 
FDOT, the airport sponsor must maintain records of materials and equipment used for 
maintenance and repair work. 
 
For purposes of an airport sponsor’s routine maintenance report, the bill defines the term 
“maintenance” to mean any preventative or routine work necessary to maintain airport 
infrastructure in good condition, which is essential to the operation of airport infrastructure. 
 
72
 Section 332.004(1), F.S., defines the term “airport” to mean any area of land or water, or any manmade object or facility 
located therein, which is used, or intended for public use, for the landing and takeoff of aircraft, and any appurtenant areas 
which are used, or intended for public use, for airport buildings or other airport facilities or rights-of-way. 
73
 Section 332.01(4), F.S., defines the term “air navigation facility” to mean any facility used in, available for use in, or 
designed for use in, aid of air navigation, including airports, restricted landing areas, and any structures, mechanisms, lights, 
beacons, marks, communicating systems, or other instrumentalities or devices used or useful as an aid, or constituting an 
advantage or convenience, to the safe taking off, navigation, and landing of aircraft, or the safe and efficient operation or 
maintenance of an airport, or restricted landing area, and any combination of any or all of such facilities. 
74
 The inspection of fixed guideway transportation systems in in accordance with s. 341.061, F.S., providing transit safety 
standards.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 16 
 
 
The bill requires FDOT-funded aviation projects to be consistent with the energy policy of the 
state. 
 
The bill requires FDOT to provide priority aviation funding is support of: 
• Terminal and parking expansion projects that increase capacity at airports providing 
commercial service in counties with a population of 500,000 or less. 
• Projects that improve safety and efficiency of airport operations. 
• Emerging technology projects, workforce development projects, and projects that benefit the 
strategic intermodal system through intermodal connectivity. 
 
The bill authorizes FDOT to fund eligible projects performed by not-for-profit organizations and 
postsecondary institutions
75
 to support the training of pilots, air traffic control personnel, or 
aircraft maintenance technical personnel. The bill also authorizes FDOT to fund planning efforts 
to improve safety at airports. FDOT may also fund programs that support the transition of 
honorably discharged military personnel to employment in the aviation industry. FDOT’s funds 
may provide matching funds for eligible projects funded by the Department of Commerce. 
 
The bill authorizes FDOT’s strategic airport investment initiative to fund up to 100 percent the 
project’s costs for capital improvements to strategically position the state to maximize 
opportunities in tourism. 
 
Commercial Service Airport Transparency and Accountability (Section 14) 
Present Situation 
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations define the term “commercial service airport” 
to mean a publicly owned airport with at least 2,500 annual enplanements and scheduled air 
carrier service.
76
 Commercial service airports are categorized as follows: 
• Large Hub Airports each receive one percent or more of the annual U.S. commercial 
enplanements. Florida’s large hub airports are Orlando International, Miami International, Ft. 
Lauderdale International, and Tampa International. 
• Medium Hub Airports each receive 0.25 to 1.0 percent of the annual U.S. commercial 
enplanements. Florida’s medium hub airports are Southwest Florida International, Palm 
Beach International, and Jacksonville International. 
• Small Hub airports each receives 0.05 to 0.25 percent of the annual U.S. commercial 
enplanements. Florida’s small hub airports are Sarasota/Bradenton International, Orlando 
Sanford International, St. Pete-Clearwater International, Destin-Ft. Walton Beach, Punta 
Gorda, Northwest Florida Beaches International, and Key West International. 
• Nonhub airports each receives less than 0.05 percent but more than 10,000 of the annual U.S. 
commercial enplanements. Florida’s nonhub airports are Tallahassee International, 
 
75
 Section 1008.47(1), F.S., defines the term “postsecondary education institution” to mean a Florida College System 
institution, state university, or nonpublic postsecondary education institution that receives state funds. 
76
 Federal Aviation Administration, Airport Categories, https://www.faa.gov/airports/planning_capacity/categories (last 
visited March 4, 2025).  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 17 
 
Melbourne Orlando International, Daytona Beach International, Gainesville Regional, Vero 
Beach Regional, and Ft. Lauderdale Executive.
77
 
 
Florida law contains provisions regarding the transparency and accountability of commercial 
service airports. For this purpose, the term: 
• Commercial service airport - a primary airport, as defined by federal law,
78
 which is 
classified by the FAA as a large, medium, or small hub airport.
79
 
• Consent agenda - an agenda which consists of items voted on as a group and which does not 
provide the opportunity for public comment on each such item before approval or 
disapproval by the governing body.
80
 
• Governing body - the governing body of the county, municipality, or special district that 
operates a commercial service airport.
81
 
 
Each governing body of a commercial service airport must establish and maintain a website 
posting the following: 
• All published notices of the governing body’s meetings and published meeting agendas. 
• The official minutes of each meeting of the governing body. 
• The airport’s approved budget for the current fiscal year. 
• A link to the airport’s Airport Master Plan. 
• A link to all of its financial and statistical reports on the FAA's website. 
• Any contract or contract amendment for the purchase of commodities or contractual services 
executed by or on behalf of the commercial service airport in excess of $350,000.
82
 
• Position and rate information for each airport employee, which must be updated annually.
83
 
 
Each November 1, each commercial service airport’s governing body must submit to FDOT: 
• Its approved budget for the current fiscal year; 
• Any financial reports submitted to the FAA during the previous calendar year; 
• A link to its website; 
• A verified statement that it has complied with ethics requirements, competitive procurement 
requirements, and statutes relating to commercial service airport accountability.
84
 
 
FDOT may not expend any funds allocated to a commercial service airport, unless pledged for 
debt service, until the commercial service airport demonstrates compliance with Florida law.
85
 
 
 
77
 FAA passenger statistics, October 2024, https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/2024-10/cy23-all-enplanements.pdf (last 
visited March 5, 2025) 
78
 Federal law defines the term "primary airport" to mean a commercial service airport the Secretary of Transportation 
determines to have more than 10,000 passenger boardings each year. in 49 U.S.C. s. 47102. 
79
 Section 332.0075(1)(a), F.S. 
80
 Section 332.0075(1)(b), F.S. 
81
 Section 332.0075(1)(d), F.S. 
82
 This is purchasing CATEGORY FIVE provided in s. 287.017, F.S. 
83
 Section 332.0075(2), F.S. 
84
 Section 332.0075(5)(a), F.S. 
85
 Section 332.0075(6), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 18 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes  
The bill amends the definition of “commercial service airport” to include airports classified by 
the FAA as nonhub airports, requiring such airports to comply with these statutes. 
 
The bill clarifies the definition of the term “consent agenda” to include agenda items voted on 
collectively. 
 
The bill amends the definition of the term “governing body” to have it include an appointed 
board or oversight entity serving as the governing body of a commercial service airport on behalf 
of a county, municipality, or special district. 
 
The bill requires that information required to be posted on the governing body’s website to 
remain posted for the longer of five years or the entirety of the period during which airport 
actively uses the required information. 
 
The bill requires that each commercial service airport’s website have posted both its current 
airport master plan and immediately preceding airport master plan be posted. Airports must also 
update employee salary information quarterly, instead of annually. 
 
The bill requires commercial service airports to annually submit to FDOT: 
• The most recent copies of its strategic plans; and 
• Contracts related to any financial awards received through federally funded grant programs 
for the preceding fiscal years. 
 
The bill requires commercial service airports to notify FDOT: 
• Within 48 hours after receiving a communication or directive from a federal agency relating 
to public health testing or the transfer of unauthorized aliens into this state. 
• As soon as reasonably possible, but no later than 48 hours, after the discovery of potential 
cybersecurity breach or other occurrence impacting the traveling public, a disruption on state 
aviation operations directly impacting multiple airports with this state, or an incident 
occurring on airport property which require coordination with multiple local, state, or federal 
agencies. 
 
Advanced Air Mobility (Section 15) 
Present Situation 
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) defines the term “advanced air 
mobility” (AAM) to mean “an air transportation system that moves people and cargo between 
places previously not served or underserved by aviation – local, regional, intraregional, urban – 
using revolutionary new aircraft that are only just now becoming possible.”
86
 
 
Numerous uses for AAM are being explored, including air taxi, air cargo, and public services. 
Air taxi supports passenger transportation within and around urban and regional areas, including 
routes connecting city centers to airports or to neighboring city centers. Air cargo uses feature 
 
86
 FDOT, Advanced Air Mobility, https://www.fdot.gov/aviation/advanced-air-mobility (last visited March 3, 2025).  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 19 
 
cargo transportation supporting the middle-mile of logistics, generally seen as from the cargo 
port to the distribution center. Public service uses, such as search and rescue, disaster relief, and 
air ambulance operations are all likely early use cases for electric vertical take-off and landing 
(eVTOL) aircraft.
87
 
 
In 2022, FDOT established an AAM Working Group consisting of various stakeholders. The 
working group developed various recommendations regarding AAM, including: 
• Designate an AAM subject matter expert within the FDOT. 
• Review airport hazard regulations and update those regulations as appropriate. 
• Incorporate AAM into state transportation planning documents. 
• Lead a statewide education campaign for local decision makers and a public awareness 
campaign for the general public.
88
 
 
Currently, Florida law does not address advanced air mobility. 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill codifies AAM into Florida law. The bill requires FDOT to: 
• Address the need for vertiports, advanced air mobility, and other advances in aviation 
technology in the statewide aviation system plan,
89
 and, as appropriate, in FDOT’s work 
program. 
• Designate, within FDOT, a subject matter expert on AAM to serve as a resource for local 
jurisdictions navigating advances in aviation technology. 
• Conduct a review of airport hazard zone regulations.
90
 
• In coordination with the Florida Department of Commerce, provide coordination and 
assistance for the development of a viable AAM system plan. FDOT must incorporate this 
plan into its statewide aviation system plan to identify corridors of need and opportunities for 
industry growth. 
 
FDOT’s Purchase of Promotional Items (Section 16) 
Present Situation 
FDOT may purchase promotional items as part of public information and education campaigns 
to promote scenic highways, traffic and train safety awareness, alternatives to single-occupant 
vehicle travel, commercial motor vehicle safety, electric vehicle use and charging stations, 
autonomous vehicles, and context design for electric vehicles and autonomous vehicles.
91
 
 
 
87
 Id. at 2. 
88
 FDOT AAM Report and Recommendations, August 2023. Available at: 
https://fdotwww.blob.core.windows.net/sitefinity/docs/default-source/aviation/pdfs/fdot-aamwg-final-report---august-10-
2023.pdf?sfvrsn=56d82d5d_1 (last visited March 7, 2025). 
89
 The statewide aviation system plan is required under s. 332.006(1), F.S. 
90
 Chapter 333, F.S., relates to airport zoning. 
91
 Section 334.044(5), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 20 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill revises FDOT’s authorization to purchase promotional items. The bill authorizes FDOT 
to purchase such items to promote environmental management and workforce development. The 
bill changes the design of electric vehicles and autonomous vehicles to the classification of those 
vehicles and removes authorization regarding alternatives to single-occupant vehicle travel. 
 
FDOT’s Purchase of Insurance (Section 16) 
Present Situation 
Except for title insurance and emergency purchases, the Department of Management Services 
(DMS) purchases insurance for all agencies.
92
 While insurance is not commodity, Florida law 
requires that the purchase of insurance, whether purchased by DMS or another agency, be done 
using statutory procedures for the purchase of commodities.
93
 
 
Florida law prohibits a primary insurance contract from being purchased on any property or 
insurable subjects when it is loaned to, leased by, or intended to be leased by, the state or its 
departments, unless the lease agreement requires insurance coverage. In those cases, DMS must 
approve, in writing, the insurance coverage required by the lease.
94
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill authorizes FDOT, notwithstanding statutory provisions relating to the state’s purchase of 
insurance, to directly enter into insurance contracts with local, national, or international 
insurance companies to purchase insurance coverage that FDOT is contractually and legally 
required to provide. 
 
FDOT’s Purchase of Motor Vehicles and Heavy Equipment (Section 16) 
Present Situation 
Any executive or judicial branch officer or employee may not authorize the purchase or 
continuous lease any motor vehicle which is to be paid for from of state or department funds 
unless the Legislature has appropriated funds for the motor vehicle. This does not apply to motor 
vehicles needed to meet unforeseen or emergency situations, which, after consultation with 
legislative appropriations committees, requires approval from the Executive Office of the 
Governor.
95
 
 
State agencies are prohibited from retaining motor vehicles for which funds have been 
appropriated for a replacement, unless the agency requires such vehicles to be retained to meet 
emergency or major unforeseen needs. State agencies, in their budget requests, must report all 
 
92
 Section 287.012(1), F.S., defines the term “agency” to mean any of the various state officers, departments, boards, 
commissions, divisions, bureaus, and councils and any other unit of organization, however designated, of the executive 
branch of state government. 
93
 Section 287.022(1), F.S. The purchase of commodities is pursuant to s. 287.057, F.S. 
94
 Section 287.025(4), F.S. 
95
 Section 287.14(1) and(3), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 21 
 
retained vehicles to the Legislature and provide the specific justification for each vehicle it 
retained.
96
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill authorizes FDOT, notwithstanding statutory requirements relating to the purchase and 
retention of motor vehicles by state agencies, to purchase or acquire heavy equipment and motor 
vehicles for roadway operations and emergency response regardless of whether FDOT 
exchanges or ceases to operate any FDOT-owned heavy equipment or motor vehicle. 
 
Florida Transportation Academy (Section 18) 
Present Situation 
FDOT is authorized to provide, in consultation with affected stakeholders, a construction 
workforce development program to deliver projects in FDOT's work program.
97
 FDOT must 
annually allocate $5 million from the STTF for this program.
98
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill creates the Florida Transportation Academy within FDOT to prioritize the continued 
need for transportation industry workforce development programs. The bill provides a legislative 
finding that the growth and sustainability of the transportation industry workforce is vital to the 
continued success of Florida’s supply chain and economic competitiveness. In order to support, 
promote, and sustain workforce development efforts in the transportation sector, FDOT may: 
• Coordinate with the Department of Corrections to identify and create certification and 
training opportunities for nonviolent, scheduled-release inmates and create a notification 
process between the Department of Corrections and FDOT for nonviolent inmates with 
imminent scheduled-release dates who are expected to seek employment upon release. 
• Coordinate with the Department of Juvenile Justice and its educational partners to create 
certification and training opportunities for eligible youth. 
• Coordinate with veterans’ organizations to encourage veterans with honorable military 
discharge to pursue employment opportunities within the transportation industry, including, 
but not limited to, employment as pilots, mechanics, and air traffic controllers. 
• Coordinate with the Department of Commerce, CareerSource Florida, Inc., and regional 
business organizations, within and outside of the transportation industry, to further 
understand recruitment and retention needs and job-seeker pipelines. 
• Coordinate with the American Council of Engineering Companies and the Florida 
Transportation Builders Association to optimize workforce recruitment and retention and 
assess future needs across Florida’s transportation industry. 
 
 
96
 Section 287.14(4), F.S. 
97
 Section 334.044(35), F.S. FDOT’s work program is developed pursuant to s. 339.135, F.S. 
98
 Section 339.84, F.S., This is beginning in the 2023-2024 fiscal year and for five years thereafter.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 22 
 
Access Management (Sections 19-20) 
Present Situation 
Access management is the coordinated planning, regulation, and design of access between 
roadways and land development to reduce conflicts on the roadway system and at its interface 
with other modes of travel.
99
 
 
The State Highway System Access Management Act
100
 defines the terms: 
• Connection - driveways, streets, turnouts, or other means of providing for the right of 
reasonable access to or from the State Highway System.
101
 
• Significant change- a change in the use of the property, including land, structures or 
facilities, or an expansion of the size of the structures or facilities causing an increase in the 
trip generation of the property exceeding 25 percent more trip generation (either peak hour or 
daily) and exceeding 100 vehicles per day more than the existing use.
102
 
 
In order to protect the public health, safety, and welfare, FDOT is required to regulate vehicular 
access and connections to or from the State Highway System. FDOT may issue access 
management permits, subject to reasonable conditions, and may revoke a permit if the applicant 
fails to comply with the permit conditions.
103
 FDOT may not deny a property owner a means of 
reasonable access to an abutting state highway, except for safety or operational concerns.
104
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill defines the term “modification of an existing connection” to mean the relocation, 
alteration, or closure of the connection. The bill amends the definition of the term “significant 
change” to include the development of land and expansion in the size of property. 
 
The bill authorizes FDOT to, for access management permits issued after July 1, 1988, require 
the modification of an existing connection to the State Highway System if the connection would 
jeopardize public safety or negatively impact highway’s operational characteristics. 
 
FDOT’s Business Development Program (Section 21) 
Present Situation 
FDOT is authorized to establish a business development program to assist small businesses. The 
program may include, but is not limited to, setting aside contracts, providing preference points 
for the use of small businesses, providing special assistance in bidding and contract completion, 
waiving bond requirements, and implementing other strategies to increase competition.
105
 
 
 
99
 FDOT Access Management https://www.fdot.gov/planning/systems/systems-management/access-management (last visited 
March 20, 2025). 
100
 Sections 335.18-335.188, F.S. 
101
 Section 335.182(3)(a), F.S. 
102
 Section 335.182(3)(b), F.S. 
103
 Section 335.185(1), F.S. 
104
 Section 335.187(5), F.S. 
105
 Section 337.027(1), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 23 
 
For purposes of FDOT’s business development program, the term “small business” is defined to 
mean a business with yearly average gross receipts of less than $15 million for road and bridge 
contracts and less than $6.5 million for professional and nonprofessional services contracts. A 
business' average gross receipts is determined by averaging its annual gross receipts over the last 
three years, including the receipts of any affiliate.
106
,
107
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill amends the definition of a “small business" for purposes of FDOT’s business 
development program. The bill increases the maximum average yearly gross receipts to $25 
million for road and bridge contracts and $10 million for professional and nonprofessional 
service contracts. The determination of average gross receipts remains unchanged. 
 
FDOT Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (Sections 22, 23, 24 and 32) 
Present Situation 
Federal rules define the term “socially and economically disadvantaged individual” to mean any 
individual who is a citizen (or lawfully admitted permanent resident) of the United States and 
who has been subjected to racial or ethnic prejudice or cultural bias within American society 
because of his or her identity as a member of a group and without regard to his or her individual 
qualities. The socially and economically disadvantaged include individuals from the following 
groups: Black Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, Asian-Pacific Americans, 
Subcontinent Asian Americans, and Women.
108
 Socially and economically disadvantaged 
individuals can also be determined on a case-by-case basis, and the Small Business 
Administration may designate additional groups as socially and economically disadvantaged.
109
 
 
Florida law requires FDOT to institute procedures to encourage the awarding of professional 
services and contracts to disadvantaged business enterprises.
110
 FDOT must develop and 
implement activities to encourage the participation of disadvantaged business enterprises in its 
contracting process. Such efforts may include informing disadvantaged business enterprises of 
contracting opportunities and contracting requirements and breaking larger contracts into smaller 
contracts.
111
 
 
 
106
 Section 337.165(1)(a), F.S., defines the term “affiliate” to mean a predecessor or successor of a contractor under the same, 
or substantially the same, control or a group of business entities which are connected or associated so that one entity controls 
or has the power to control each of the other business entities. The term “affiliate” includes the officers, directors, executives, 
shareholders active in management, employees, and agents of the affiliate. The ownership by one business entity of a 
controlling interest in another business entity or a pooling of equipment or income among business entities shall be prima 
facie evidence that one business entity is an affiliate of another. 
107
 Section 337.027(2), F.S. 
108
 Members of these groups are rebuttably presumed to be socially and economically disadvantaged. 
109
 49 CFR part 26 
110
 For the purposes of FDOT’s disadvantaged business enterprise program, the term “disadvantaged business enterprise” 
means a small business concern certified by the Department of Transportation to be owned and controlled by socially and 
economically disadvantaged individuals as defined by the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: 
A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU). See s. 337.139, F.S. 
111
 Section 337.139, F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 24 
 
FDOT’s disadvantage business enterprise program requires: 
• Prime contractors to submit information regarding the uses of disadvantaged business 
enterprises as subcontractors.
112
 
• FDOT to provide a socially and economically disadvantaged business enterprise with 
reasonable advance notice prior to removing such enterprise as a certified socially and 
economically disadvantaged business enterprises.
113
 
 
FDOT must expend federal-aid highway funds and state matching funds with small business 
concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.
114
 
 
Upon FDOT’s determination of past and continuing discrimination in nonfederally funded 
projects, FDOT may implement a program tailored to address specific findings of disparity. The 
program may include establishing annual goals for expending a percentage of state-administered 
highway funds with small businesses. FDOT may utilize set-asides for small business concerns 
to assist in achieving goals these goals. The head of FDOT may elect to set goals only when a 
significant disparity is documented. FDOT must consider the findings of a disparity study in 
determining the program goals for each group qualified to participate.
115
 
 
FDOT must certify a socially and economically disadvantaged business enterprise as prescribed 
in federal rules. FDOT's initial application for certification must require sufficient information to 
determine eligibility. For continuing eligibility, FDOT may accept an affidavit certifying that the 
business remains qualified for certification. An applicant’s application and required financial 
information are confidential and exempt from public records laws.
116
 
 
The head of FDOT may to expend up to six percent of the funds which are designated to be 
expended on small businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged 
individuals to conduct a construction management development program for such firms. The 
statue continues with the program’s requirements.
117
 
 
The head of FDOT may expend up to four percent of specified DBE funds on a bond guarantee 
program for DBEs and who meet other standards. The state guarantees up to 90 percent of a 
bond amount of $250,000 or less, and 80 percent of a bond amount of greater than $250,000. 
However, FDOT retains five percent of the total contract amount designated for the DBE until its 
final acceptance of the project.
118
 
 
Any individual who fraudulently represents an entity as a socially and economically 
disadvantaged business enterprise under commits of a felony of the second degree. An individual 
 
112
 Section 337.125(1), F.S. 
113
 Section 337.125(3), F.S. 
114
 Section 339.0805(1)(a), F.S. 
115
 Section 339.0805(1)(b), F.S. Public records law is provided in s. 119.07(1), F.S. 
116
 Section 339.0805(1)(c), F.S. 
117
 Section 339.0805(3), F.S. 
118
 Section 339.0805(4), F.S. FDOT many not commit funds for this program in excess of those funds specifically 
appropriated for this purpose.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 25 
 
found in violation may not create a new corporate structure for the purpose of circumventing this 
provision.
119
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill repeals FDOT’s disadvantaged business enterprise program and related provisions. 
 
Federal Rule Authorization (Section 116) 
The bill authorizes FDOT to adopt rules for the purpose of compliance with 49 C.F.R. part 26, 
relating to the United States Department of Transportation’s Disadvantage Business Enterprise 
Program and any other applicable federal law. 
 
Conforming Changes (Sections 3, 17, 22, 27, 30, 34, and 39) 
The bill makes changes to the following to provide for small businesses: 
• The FSTED Council’s requirement to develop job training programs associated with the 
maritime industry (section 3). 
• FDOT’s performance measures regarding this program to performance measures to FDOT’s 
business development program (section 17). 
• FDOT’s consideration of small business participation related to certain contracts (section 22). 
• FDOT considering small business involvement in certain lease proposals (section 27). 
• FDOT and Department of Management Services outreach regarding participation in certain 
turnpike-related projects (section 30). 
• Contractors for economic development transportation projects (section 34). 
• Central Florida Expressway Authority’s
120
 encouragement of the use of certain business in its 
procurement and contracting opportunities (section 39). 
 
FDOT Surety Bonds (Section 26) 
Present Situation 
Florida law requires that the successful bidder on most FDOT contracts provide a surety bond in 
the amount of the awarded contract price. However, for multiyear maintenance contracts, FDOT 
may allow incremental annual contract bonds that cumulatively total the full, awarded, multiyear 
contract price. For phased design-build contracts,
121
 FDOT may also allow the issuance of 
multiple contract performance and payment bonds to align with each contract phase to meet the 
bonding requirements.
122
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to, at his or her discretion, require a surety 
bond in an amount less than the awarded contract price. 
 
 
119
 Section 337.135, F.S. 
120
 The Central Florida Expressway Authority is created in part III of ch. 348, F.S. 
121
 Phased design-build contracts are authorized in s. 337.11(7)(b), F.S. 
122
 Section 337.18(1)(a), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 26 
 
Sewer Line Installation (Section 28) 
Present Situation 
Section 337.401, F.S., provides for the regulation and permitting of utilities in the right of way. 
Under that statute, the authority (FDOT and local governmental entities) that have jurisdiction 
and control over public roads may prescribe and enforce reasonable rules and regulations 
regarding the placing and maintaining of utilities along its right-of-way. For purposes of that 
statute, the term “utility’ includes sewers.
123
 
 
Under Florida law, the authority may grant the use of a right-of-way for utility in accordance 
with the authority’s rules or regulations as the authority. A utility may not be installed, located, 
or relocated unless the authority issues a written permit. However, for public roads under 
FDOT’s jurisdiction, a utility relocation schedule and relocation agreement may be executed in 
lieu of a written permit. The permit must require the permitholder to be responsible for any 
damage resulting from the issuance of such permit. The authority may initiate injunctive 
proceedings as provided in s. 120.69, F.S., to enforce the permit.
124
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill provides that a municipality may not prohibit, or require a permit, for the installation of 
a public sewer transmission line placed and maintained within and under publicly dedicated 
rights-of-way as part of a septic-to-sewer conversion where the work is being performed under 
permits issued by FDOT and the Department of Environmental Protection, or its delegate, 
pursuant to ch. 403, F.S., relating to environmental control. 
 
Camping on the Right-of-Way (Section 29) 
Present Situation 
Florida law prohibits camping on any portion of the State Highway System’s right-of-way within 
100 feet of a bridge, causeway, overpass, or ramp.
125
 
 
The Florida National Scenic Trail is Florida's official statewide nonmotorized trail, running more 
than 1,400 miles from the Panhandle to the Everglades and the Florida Keys.
126
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill prohibits camping on all portions of the State Highway System’s right-of-way. 
However, this prohibition does not apply to a person who is actively navigating the Florida 
National Scenic Trail and has acquired the appropriate permits. 
 
 
123
 Section 337.401(1)(a), F.S. 
124
 Section 337.401(2), F.S. 
125
 Section 337.406(4), F.S. 
126
 Section 260.012(6), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 27 
 
Energy Policy of The State/Use of State Funds (Section 31) 
Present Situation 
Florida law authorizes FDOT to expend moneys in the STTF and restricts the use of such funds 
to the transportation-related purposes.
127
 However, FDOT may not expend any state funds to 
support a project or program of a public transit provider, an authority;
128
 public-use airport; or a 
port, which is found in violation of s. 381.00316, F.S., relating to discrimination by 
governmental and business entities based on health care choices. FDOT must withhold state 
funds until the entity is found in compliance with that statute.
129
 
 
Section 377.601(3), F.S., provides that it is Florida’s energy policy to: 
• Promote the cost-effective development and use of a diverse supply of domestic energy 
resources and discourage energy waste. 
• Promote the cost-effective development and maintenance of energy infrastructure that is 
resilient to natural and manmade threats to the state's energy supply. 
• Reduce reliance on foreign energy resources. 
• Include energy reliability and security considerations in planning activities. 
• Utilize and manage effectively energy resources used within state agencies. 
• Encourage local governments to include energy considerations in planning activities and 
support the promotion of energy management programs. 
• Include citizen participation in developing and implementing energy programs. 
• Consider in its decisions the energy needs of each economic sector and, whenever possible, 
reduce those needs. 
• Promote energy education and the public dissemination of information on energy and its 
impacts on Florida’s energy goals. 
• Encourage the research, development, demonstration, and application of domestic energy 
resources, including renewable energy resources. 
• Consider the impacts of energy-related activities on the state’s energy goals. 
• Develop and maintain energy emergency preparedness plans. 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill defines the term “energy policy of the state” to mean the energy policy described above 
and includes any intended or actual measure, obligation, target, or timeframe related to a 
reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. 
 
The bill prohibits FDOT from expending any state funds to support a project or program of any 
of the following entities: a public transit provider, an authority, a public-use airport, or a port if 
such entity adopts or promotes energy policy goals that are inconsistent with the energy policy of 
the state. 
 
 
127
 Section 339.08(1), F.S. 
128
 These are created pursuant to ch. 343, 348, or 349, F.S., and include, the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority, 
the Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority, the Greater Miami Expressway Agency, the Tampa-Hillsborough 
County Expressway Authority, the Central Florida Expressway Authority, and the Jacksonville Transportation Authority. 
129
 Section 339.08(5), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 28 
 
FDOT Budget Roll Forward (Section 33) 
Present Situation 
Florida law provides any unexpended balance remaining at the end of the fiscal year in for 
certain FDOT-related appropriations may be certified forward as fixed capital outlay at the end. 
On or before August 1 of each year, the head of FDOT must certify its roll forward to the 
Executive Office of the Governor.
130
 
 
On or before September 1 of each year, the Executive Office of the Governor must review and 
approve or disapprove FDOT’s certified roll forward and provide the Chief Financial Officer, the 
legislative appropriations committees, and the Auditor General certain information.
131
 
 
Any project phases in FDOT’s adopted work program not certified forward are available for roll 
forward for the next fiscal year of the adopted work program. Spending authority associated with 
such project phases may be rolled forward to the next fiscal year upon the Legislative Budget 
Commission’s (LBC) approval.
132
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill removes the LBC’s approval of FDOT’s roll forward. The bill requires FDOT’s 
spending authority to roll forward as provided in s. 216.177, F.S. relating to the appropriations 
act. Upon approval, the bill requires the Executive Office of the Governor to modify FDOT’s 
original approved fixed capital outlay operating budget. 
 
FDOT - Work Program Amendments (Section 33) 
Present Situation 
FDOT’s is authorized to amend work program as provided by law. However, any work program 
amendment that adds a new project or project phase in excess of $3 million to the adopted work 
program is subject to LBC approval.
133
 However, if FDOT submits such an amendment to the 
LBC and the LBC does not meet or consider the amendment within 30 days after its submittal, 
the LBC’s chair and vice chair may authorize the approval of the amendment. This provision 
expires on July 1, 2025.
134
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill makes permanent chair and vice chair of the LBC’s authority to approve certain FDOT 
work program amendments. 
 
 
130
 Section 339.135(6)(c), F.S. 
131
 Id. 
132
 Id. 
133
 Section 339.135(7)(h)1, F.S. 
134
 Section 339.135(7)(h)2., F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 29 
 
Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Report (Section 35) 
Present Situation 
In 2020,
135
 the Legislature required FDOT, in coordination the Public Service Commission and 
the Office of Energy,
136
 to develop and recommend a master plan for current and future plans for 
the development of EV charging station infrastructure along the State Highway System. FDOT 
was required to develop the recommended master plan, and, by July 1, 2021, submit the plan to 
the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
137
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill repeals the EV charging infrastructure report that was due by July 1, 2021. 
 
State Infrastructure Bank Loans (Section 36) 
Present Situation 
FDOT’s state-funded infrastructure bank (SIB) provides loans and credit enhancements to 
government units and private entities to construct and improve transportation facilities or 
ancillary facilities that produce or distribute natural gas or fuel.
138
 
 
The SIB may provide emergency loans for capital costs or provide credit enhancements for 
emergency loans for damages incurred at seaports, public-use airports, and other public-use 
transit and intermodal facilities within an area that is part of a declared state of emergency. Such 
loans: 
• May not exceed 24 months except in extreme circumstances; where the Secretary of 
Transportation may grant up to 36 months. 
• Require the loan application to include documentation of damage claims filed with the 
Federal Emergency Management Agency or an applicable insurance carrier and 
documentation of the recipient's overall financial condition. 
• Are subject to approval by the Secretary of Transportation and the LBC. 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill repeals the requirement that the LBC approve emergency loans from the State 
Infrastructure Bank. 
 
Strategic Intermodal System Supply Chain Demands (Section 37) 
Present Situation 
FDOT’s Strategic Intermodal System consists of appropriate components of highway corridors, 
the National Highway System, airports, airports, seaports, and spaceports, rail lines and rail 
 
135
 Chapter 2020-21, Laws of Florida. 
136
 The Office of Energy is within the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. 
137
 Section 339.287(2), F.S. 
138
 Section 339.55(1), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 30 
 
facilities, selected intermodal facilities, and other existing or planned corridors serving a 
statewide or interregional purpose.
139
 
 
For fiscal years 2023-2024 through 2027-2028, FDOT must make up to $20 million available 
each fiscal year, from its existing work program revenues, to fund projects to provide increased 
capacity and enhanced capabilities to move and store construction aggregates.
140
 Seaports, and 
rail lines, and rail facilities are eligible for project funding.
141
 
 
This program is scheduled for repeal on July 1, 2028.
142
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill amends FDOT’s SIS supply chain program by making FDOT’s funding permissive, and 
removes specific dates, including the 2028 repeal date, making this program permanent. 
 
New Starts Transit Funding (Section 38) 
Present Situation 
Federal law authorizes the Federal Transit Administration to issue certain transit capital 
investment grants and loans,
143
 known as the New Starts Transit Program. FDOT funds the New 
Starts Transit Program from 10 percent of the documentary stamp tax revenues distributed to the 
STTF
144
 and 3.4 percent of the portion of the “new wheels on the road fee,” deposited into the 
STTF.
145
 
 
As of June 2024, FDOT was required to reallocate unallocated New Starts Transit Program funds 
to the Strategic Intermodal System. This reallocation expires on June 30, 2026.
146
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill makes permanent the reallocation of unused New Starts Transit Funds to the SIS. The 
bill also provides that if funds are allocated to projects that qualify for the New Starts Transit 
Program in the current fiscal year and a project will not be ready for production by June 30, 
FDOT must reallocate those funds to the SIS for the next fiscal year. 
 
 
139
 Section 339.62, F.S. 
140
 Aggregates are raw materials that are produced from natural sources and extracted from pits and quarries, including 
gravel, crushed stone, and sand. When used with a binding medium, like water, cement, and asphalt, they are used to form 
compound materials, such as asphalt concrete and Portland cement concrete. https://www.aem.org/news/construction-
aggregates-101-what-they-are-and-why-they-
matter#:~:text=Aggregates%20are%20raw%20materials%20that,concrete%20and%20Portland%20cement%20concrete. (last 
visited March 9, 2025). 
141
 Section 339.651(3), F.S. 
142
 Section 339.651(7), F.S. 
143
 49 U.S.C. s. 5309 
144
 Section 201.15(4)(a)1., F.S. 
145
 Section 320.072(4)(b), F.S. 
146
 Section 341.051(6)(b), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 31 
 
Jacksonville Transportation Authority (Section 40) 
Present Situation 
The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) is an independent agency of the state in Duval 
County. JTA designs and constructs bridges and highways and provides varied mass transit 
services, including express and regular bus service, community shuttles for a neighborhood ride, 
a downtown Skyway monorail, the St. Johns River Ferry, and the Gameday Xpress. JTA also 
provides paratransit for the disabled and elderly, and ride request on-demand services.
147
 
 
JTA’s governing body consists of seven members. Three members are appointed by the 
Governor and confirmed by the Senate. Three members are appointed by the mayor of the City 
of Jacksonville and confirmed by the Jacksonville City Council. The seventh member is FDOT’s 
district secretary serving the district containing Jacksonville. Except for FDOT’s district 
secretary, JTA members must be residents and qualified electors of Duval County.
148
 
 
Florida operates a statewide travel management system utilized by the executive and judicial 
branches of state government. Information on the system includes names, position title, purpose 
of travel, dates and locations of travel, modes of travel, confirmation of any required travel 
authorizations, and total travel costs.
149
 
 
Florida maintains a website providing current salary information for each employee or officer of 
a state agency, a state university, a Florida College System institution, or the State Board of 
Administration. For each employee or officer, such information includes name, rate of pay; 
position number, class code, class title, employing agency, budget entity.
150
 
 
Florida maintains a secure contract tracking system website. Each state agency, within 30 
calendar days after executing a contract, must post to the tracking system certain contract-related 
information, including certain contract documents.
151
 
 
Effect of Proposed Changes 
The bill amends JTA’s governing body to consist of seven members. Four members are 
appointed by the Governor, subject to Senate confirmation. One of the Governor’s appointees 
must be a resident of the City of Jacksonville, and the other three appointees must be residents of 
Clay County, St. Johns County or Nassau County. Three members are appointed by the mayor of 
Jacksonville, who must be residents of the City of Jacksonville. The bill removes the FDOT 
district secretary from the board. 
 
The bill requires JTA to follow FDOT’s business development program. The bill also requires 
JTA to establish protocols and systems, similar to the state’s systems, regarding posting travel, 
salary, and contract information on its publicly-available website. 
 
147
 Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA), JTA Goals, available at: https://www.jtafla.com/about-jta/about/ (last visited 
March 7, 2025). 
148
 Section 349.03(2),F .S. 
149
 Section 112.061(16)(b), F.S. 
150
 Section 215.985(6), F.S. 
151
 Section 215.985(14), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 32 
 
 
Conforming Changes (Sections 41, 43-46) 
The bill amends ss. 110.205, 365.175, 379.2293, 493.6101, and 493.6403, F.S., conforming cross 
references. 
 
Effective Date (Section 47) 
This bill takes effect July 1, 2025. 
IV. Constitutional Issues: 
A. Municipality/County Mandates Restrictions: 
None.  
B. Public Records/Open Meetings Issues: 
The bill repeals FDOT’s disadvantaged business enterprise program, which contains a 
public records exemption relating to an applicant’s application and financial 
information.
152
 With the repeal of this exemption, this currently exempted information 
may become public. 
C. Trust Funds Restrictions: 
None. 
D. State Tax or Fee Increases: 
None. 
E. Other Constitutional Issues: 
None. 
V. Fiscal Impact Statement: 
A. Tax/Fee Issues: 
The bill repeals authorization for HOV lanes, including a $5 fee paid to obtain an HOV 
decal, and a toll exemption for certain vehicles in HOV express lanes (section 5). 
B. Private Sector Impact: 
Motor vehicle owners who currently have an HOV decal would be subject to the payment 
of tolls (section 5). 
 
 
152
 Section 339.0805(2), F.S.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 33 
 
FDOT’s contractors may experience a reduction in surety bond costs due to the 
authorization of the Secretary of Transportation to waive certain surety bond 
requirements (section 26). 
C. Government Sector Impact: 
There will likely be an indeterminate negative fiscal impact on the Florida Transportation 
Commission in order to monitor and report on additional transit entities (Section 1). 
 
FDOT may experience an indeterminate negative fiscal impact associated with: 
• Allocating funds to the Florida Transportation Research Institute (section 1). 
• Certification of private airports of public interest, including site visits (section 8). 
• Funding certain infrastructure projects near spaceports (section 9). 
• Inspecting commercial airport facilities that have received state funds (section 12). 
• Costs associated with the codification of advanced air mobility into Florida law, 
including the review of airport hazard zoning regulations (section 15). 
• Costs incurred in establishing the Florda Transportation Academy (section 18). 
 
FDOT may experience an insignificant increase in toll revenues due to the repeal of HOV 
toll lanes (section 5). 
 
FDOT may experience cost savings associated with changes directly purchasing 
insurance and directly purchasing and retaining motor vehicle and heavy equipment 
(section 16). 
 
DHSMV will experience a reduction in revenues due to the repeal of HOV lanes, 
including the $5 annual decal fee. However, DSHMV should see a similar reduction to its 
costs (section 5). 
 
The following provisions of the bill may have a negative fiscal impact on airports: 
• FDOT’s use of airport property during certain declared states of emergency (section 
11); 
• FDOT’s inspection of commercial airport facilities (section 12); 
• Preparing annual reports on their comprehensive maintenance programs (section 13); 
and 
• Additional requirements regarding the transparency and accountability of commercial 
service airports (section 1). 
 
The bill may have a negative fiscal impact on the Jacksonville Transportation Authority 
to prepare certain information and post such information on its website (section 40). 
VI. Technical Deficiencies: 
The bill (section 3) requires each member of the FSTED Council to submit to FDOT a 
semiannual report on his or her port. This is likely meant to require each port represented by the 
FSTED Council to submit the report to FDOT.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 34 
 
VII. Related Issues: 
The bill (section 5) repeals HOV lanes. Section 338.166, F.S., authorizes FDOT to impose tolls 
on HOV lanes and to issue bonds secured by such toll revenues. Section 338.166, F.S., may need 
to be amended to conform to the repeal of HOV lanes.
153
 
 
The bill (section 8) requires FDOT to certify private airports of public interest. However, the bill 
does not address site approval for these airports. The airport site approval statute, s. 330.30(1), 
F.S., may need to be amended to address the site approval of private airports of public interest. 
VIII. Statutes Affected: 
This bill substantially amends the following sections of the Florida Statutes: 20.23, 110.205, 
311.07, 311.09, 311.10, 316.0745, 322.27, 330.27, 330.30, 331.371, 332.003, 332.005, 332.006, 
332.007, 332.0075, 334.044, 334.045, 335.182, 335.187, 337.027, 337.11, 337.18, 337.251, 
337.401, 337.406, 338.227, 339.08, 339.135, 339.2821, 339.55, 339.651, 341.051, 348.754, 
349.03, 365.172, 379.2293, 493.6101, and 493.6403. 
 
This bill creates the following sections of the Florida Statutes: 332.15 and 334.62. 
 
This bill repeals the following sections of the Florida Statutes: 316.0741, 337.125, 337.135, 
337.139, 339.0805, and 339.287. 
IX. Additional Information: 
A. Committee Substitute – Statement of Substantial Changes: 
(Summarizing differences between the Committee Substitute and the prior version of the bill.) 
CS by Transportation March 25, 2025: 
• Adds the University of South Florida to the Florida Transportation Research Institute. 
• Removes various provisions from the bill, including: 
o Changes relating to the independence of the Florida Transportation Commission; 
o Transfer of certain sales tax revenues to the State Transportation Trust Fund; 
o Revisions relating to FDOT’s expenditures on landscaping; 
o Additional funding for the Small County Road Assistance Program and the Small 
County Outreach Program. 
• Makes numerous clarifying and conforming changes to the bill, including: 
o Revises the types of seaport projects that are eligible for funding; 
o Specifies that state transportation funds may be withheld for noncompliant traffic 
signals; 
o Stipulates that FDOT may fund certain spaceport-related infrastructure projects; 
and 
o Revises the incidents that would require commercial service airports to provide 
certain notifications to FDOT. 
• Requires FDOT’s long-term use of airport property for emergency staging for longer 
than 60 days to be by written agreement. 
 
153
 Section 338.166, F.S., also authorizes FDOT to impose tolls on express lanes and bond such toll revenues.  BILL: CS/SB 1662   	Page 35 
 
• Prohibits municipalities from prohibiting or requiring a permit for the installation of a 
sewer transmission line for septic to sewer conversions being performed under certain 
state permits. 
• Includes a representative from Nassau County on the governing body of the 
Jacksonville Transportation Authority. 
B. Amendments: 
None. 
This Senate Bill Analysis does not reflect the intent or official position of the bill’s introducer or the Florida Senate.