Florida § 22.20 - Emergency continuity of government; political subdivision.

Full text of Florida Florida Statutes § 22.20 — Emergency continuity of government; political subdivision., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 22.20. Emergency continuity of government; political subdivision.

(1) Whenever, due to an emergency resulting from the effects of enemy attack, or the anticipated effects of a threatened enemy attack, it becomes imprudent, inexpedient or impossible to conduct the affairs of the government of a political subdivision of the state at the normal location of the seat thereof, the governing body of such political subdivision shall, as often as the exigencies of the situation require, by proclamation, declare an emergency temporary location, or locations, for the seat of government at such place, or places within or without the territorial limits of its political jurisdiction, as deemed advisable under the circumstances, and shall take such action and issue such orders as may be necessary for an orderly transition of the affairs of the government of the political subdivision to such emergency temporary location, or locations. Such emergency temporary location, or locations, shall remain as the seat of such government until a new seat of government is established by due processes of the law, or until the emergency is declared to be ended by the Governor and the seat of government is returned to its normal location. (2) During such time as the seat of government remains at such emergency temporary location, or locations, all official acts now or hereafter required by law to be performed at the seat of government by any officer, agency, department or authority of the political subdivision, including the convening of the governing body thereof in regular, extraordinary or emergency session, shall be as valid and binding when performed at such emergency temporary location, or locations, as if performed at the normal location of the seat of government. (3) The provisions of this section shall control and be supreme in the event it shall be employed, notwithstanding the provisions of any other law to the contrary or in conflict herewith.

Source: official Florida text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida § 22.20

What does Florida Statutes § 22.20 cover?

Section 22.20 ("Emergency continuity of government; political subdivision.") is part of the Florida Statutes, the codified statutory law of Florida. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Florida § 22.20?

A common citation format is "Florida Statutes § 22.20" (Florida). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Florida law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Florida official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Florida attorney.

How does Florida § 22.20 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Florida can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Florida.