By Brooke Bauerle Dawson, CPA
Effective July 1, 2025, Florida’s Senate Bill 700 introduced changes to how nonprofits can solicit and accept charitable contributions within the state. For organizations navigating the complexities of compliance and donor management, these new requirements add another layer of scrutiny, especially for those with international ties.
What Is Senate Bill 700?
Senate Bill 700 is designed to limit the influence of certain foreign actors in Florida’s charitable sector by prohibiting the solicitation or acceptance of donations from individuals or entities associated with designated “foreign countries of concern.” This includes not only public charities and private foundations, but also social welfare organizations, fundraising consultants, and commercial co-venturers operating or seeking donations in the state of Florida.
The law also establishes an “Honest Services Registry,” a public list of nonprofits that certify they do not receive support from restricted foreign sources. Inclusion is voluntary, but donors may view registry status as a mark of credibility and compliance.
Who Is Affected by the New Law?
The reach of Senate Bill 700 is broad. It applies to:
- Nonprofit organizations, including those exempt under Sections 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code
- Professional fundraisers and fundraising consultants
- Commercial co-venturers engaging in charitable sales promotions
- Multinational companies and foreign nonprofits raising funds in Florida
If your organization operates in Florida or solicits donations from Florida residents, these rules are likely to apply to you. Even if your nonprofit is based elsewhere, soliciting contributions from Florida may trigger compliance obligations.
Defining “Foreign Sources of Concern”
The law targets donations from the following countries: China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela (under Nicolás Maduro), and Syria. Restrictions extend to:
- Governments and officials from these countries
- Political parties and their members
- Entities organized under the laws of these nations or their subsidiaries
- Individuals domiciled in these countries who are not U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents
- Agents acting on behalf of the above
- Any entity in which a “foreign principal” holds a controlling interest (defined as direct or indirect control of 25% or more voting interest or profits)1
Compliance Steps for Nonprofits and Fundraisers
The foreign donor attestation and honest services registry are yet to be introduced by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Until more guidance becomes available, Organizations can begin to prepare by implementing the following:
- Update contribution forms to include donor attestations regarding foreign ties
- Update language on your website for online giving
- Train staff on new laws, procedures, and policies
- Review current relationships with donors, staff, board members, and vendors
- Monitor and document all charitable transactions with increased diligence
Failure to comply can result in civil penalties and a ban on charitable fundraising in Florida. The law also provides a voluntary disclosure safe harbor for first-time violations, provided the organization refunds the contribution and notifies the state within 30 days of the disclosure.
Wider Trends and Potential Changes
Florida’s new law is part of a broader movement among states to limit foreign influence in the nonprofit and real estate sectors. Similar legislation has been enacted or considered in Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, and several other states. Legal challenges, such as those against Florida’s Senate Bill 264 on foreign property ownership, could impact the enforceability of these restrictions in the future.
Ready to Navigate the New Regulations?
Staying compliant with evolving charitable solicitation laws is critical for protecting your organization’s reputation and financial health. Rivero, Gordimer & Company has proudly served Florida’s not-for-profit community for over four decades, providing specialized guidance tailored to the unique challenges nonprofits face. Our dedicated not-for-profit team understands the regulatory landscape, speaks your language, and offers practical solutions—from policy updates to full compliance assessments. Contact us today to stay ahead of Senate Bill 700 and continue focusing on what matters most: your mission.
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