How are the state agencies in Florida structured?

The majority of state agencies have similar structures. Most the Florida agencies maintain their headquarters in Tallahassee and have regional offices throughout the state. Within each agency, there are various divisions, each with its own set of duties. Examples of such divisions include administration, permitting, enforcement, or public information. Within each division is a structure of even greater specificity—the bureau. Bureaus handle many of the divisional duties at a more local level.

How are agency leaders selected, and what do they do?

Agency heads are either elected or appointed. Generally, agency heads keep in close contact with the governor, participating in state government as part of the state cabinet. Agency heads also work closely with the legislature to be aware of policy changes in order to maintain accurate, up-to-date rules. To some extent, decisions made by the agencies are subject to the discretion of the legislature because the legislature controls the budgets for the agencies each year. The legislature in its oversight capacity may also request information from the agencies and can create and abolish agencies, as long as they are not constitutionally created agencies such as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Acknowledgment

The authors are indebted to the personnel of both state and federal agencies who gave of their time and advice in the preparation of this handbook. The authors are also indebted to the O. R. and Shirley Minton and the James S. and Dorothy F. Wershow Endowments for funding assistance in the development of this handbook, and Andra Johnson, Ph.D., dean and professor, Office of Dean for Extension and the Florida Cooperative Extension Service.