Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez Supports Bill Signing Advancing Florida’s Fight Against Murderous Communist and Socialist Cuban Regime Influence and Foreign Interference

Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez today issued the following statement after Governor Ron DeSantis signed CS/CS/CS HB 905: Foreign Influence into law, calling the legislation a major step forward in protecting Florida from foreign influence, strengthening government accountability, and defending the values cherished by South Florida’s Cuban exile community.

“For those of us in Miami-Dade County, especially within the Cuban exile community, this issue is deeply personal,” said Fernandez. “Families who fled communist tyranny understand better than anyone the dangers posed by authoritarian regimes seeking to infiltrate democratic institutions, manipulate public policy, and erode freedom from within. This bill sends a strong and unmistakable message that Florida stands firmly against foreign interference and in defense of liberty.”

This bill strengthens Florida law by prohibiting public officials and government employees from soliciting or accepting benefits from foreign countries of concern or designated foreign terrorist organizations, while imposing enhanced penalties for violations. The legislation also requires enhanced ethics training to help public officials recognize and report foreign influence operations targeting state and local governments.

The law further reinforces accountability by authorizing tax collectors and local governing authorities to revoke or refuse renewal of business tax receipts for individuals or entities doing business with the murderous Cuban communist and socialist dictatorship in violation of federal law.

“As Tax Collector, I take seriously the responsibility of upholding the law and protecting the integrity of our institutions,” Fernandez said. “This legislation provides additional tools to ensure accountability and transparency while reaffirming Florida’s longstanding support for a free and independent Cuba.” added Fernandez.

“...It creates accountability for false declarations regarding business activities in Cuba. Knowingly submitting a false declaration related to unlawful activity involving Cuba will now constitute a third-degree felony in the State of Florida,” said Governor DeSantis during his remarks.

CS/CS/CS HB 905 also terminates certain agreements between public entities and foreign countries of concern that may compromise the safety, independence, or security of Florida institutions. The bill additionally increases scrutiny of foreign influence efforts directed at local governments and public agencies.

Fernandez acknowledged members of the Florida House and Senate for advancing the legislation and thanked Representative Jenna Persons-Mulicka and Senator Erin Grallfor their leadership on the issue.

During the signing of CS/CS/CS HB 905 at the Brigade 2506 Bay of Pigs Museum in Little Havana, Governor Ron DeSantis and Representative Jenna Persons-Mulicka also recognized and acknowledged Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez.

“Florida continues to lead the nation in standing up to authoritarianism and protecting democratic values,” Fernandez added. “I thank the members of the Florida Legislature for recognizing the concerns of our exile communities and for taking meaningful action to safeguard our state and our country.”