166 - Trading mosquitoes for metrics: Florida’s Special District Accountability Act puts Independent Mosquito Control Districts under the microscope

Abstract: In Florida’s 2021 Legislative Session, the passage of HB 1103 introduced §189.0695 Florida Statutes (FS), which required performance evaluations for independent special districts, including mosquito control districts. These evaluations demonstrated that independent mosquito control districts were operationally efficient and fiscally responsible. However, in the 2024 Legislative Session, HB 7013 was introduced— a broader bill aimed at strengthening accountability across special districts, with a distinct focus on independent mosquito control districts. Despite positive findings in the previous year’s performance evaluations, HB 7013 included four specific provisions targeting independent mosquito control districts. The bill culminated in a revision of §189.0695 FS, mandating all independent special districts to establish goals and performance measures by October 1, 2024. This presentation explores the legislative challenges faced by independent mosquito control districts during this time and highlights the pivotal role played by the Florida Mosquito Control Association and its membership in advocating for the industry’s interests in the State of Florida.