The relationship between the public and independent sector of higher education in Florida is examined in this conference publication. The problems and issues involved in formulating state policy with respect to postsecondary education in Florida are examined. An overview of policy positions of other states is presented as well as an assessment of the present and prospective status of postsecondary education in Florida, a discussion of the possible components to be included in a policy statement, and an assessment of the legal and fiscal realities implicit in the adoption of a policy statement. Section I of the report provides a conference overview and two papers: "The Issues" (Senator David L. Boren) and "State Policies and Programmatic Implementation" (Richard W. Jonsen). Section II contains presentations on the policies of selected states towards independent higher education including: "Pennsylvania" (Edward McGuire), "Illinois" (Joseph D. Boyd), and "California" (Morgan Odell). A discussion of the policy issues facing the federal government in this area is presented in Section III by John D. Phillips in a paper entitled "Policy Issues, The Federal Government, and Diversity." Section IV of the report is a summary of the total meeting and includes the conference program, the membership of the Florida Postsecondary Education Commission, and a list of the conference participants. (SF)