WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 119

RELATING TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Greggor Ilagan

HB 119 restricts Shari'a and foreign laws in Florida courts, ensuring legal rulings uphold U.S. constitutional rights, impacting civil litigation and contracts.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
#economicdevelopment #shortform
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 119

Summary of HB 119: Shari'a and Other Foreign Law

Bill Number: HB 119
Title: Shari'a and Other Foreign Law
Status: Now in Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee
Introduced: October 08, 2025
Effective Date: July 1, 2026
Classification: Bill
Subject: Civil Practice and Procedure

Purpose and Intent

HB 119, also known as the "No Shari'a Act," aims to restrict the application of Shari'a law and other foreign legal systems in Florida courts. The bill seeks to ensure that any legal rulings or contractual provisions based on foreign laws do not violate fundamental rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and the Florida Constitution.

Key Provisions

  1. Definition of Foreign Law:

    • The bill defines "foreign law, legal code, or system" as any law or legal framework from jurisdictions outside the United States, including international organizations.

  2. Void and Unenforceable Provisions:

    • Any court ruling, arbitration decision, or contractual provision that allows the application of Shari'a or other foreign laws is deemed void if it infringes on fundamental liberties, rights, and privileges guaranteed by the U.S. and Florida Constitutions.

  3. Restrictions on Venue Transfers:

    • The bill amends existing statutes to prohibit the transfer of civil actions to another court if such transfer would result in the application of Shari'a or foreign laws that could violate constitutional rights.

  4. Exemptions:

    • The act does not:
      • Disapprove existing Florida Supreme Court precedents.
      • Limit the adjudication of ecclesiastical matters within religious organizations.
      • Apply to entities that voluntarily choose to subject themselves to foreign laws.
      • Override federal law or international agreements.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • This legislation primarily impacts individuals and entities involved in civil litigation in Florida where foreign laws may be invoked. It particularly affects contracts that specify the use of Shari'a or other foreign legal systems.

  • Legal Community:

    • Attorneys and legal practitioners will need to navigate the implications of this bill when advising clients on contracts and legal disputes that may involve foreign laws.

Legislative Actions

  • October 14, 2025: Referred to the Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee and the Judiciary Committee.
  • October 8, 2025: Bill filed for consideration.

Conclusion

HB 119 seeks to reinforce the application of U.S. constitutional rights within Florida's legal framework by limiting the influence of foreign laws, particularly Shari'a. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it will be essential for stakeholders to monitor its developments and potential implications for civil law practice in Florida.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.