New Laws Went into effect July 1st

159 new laws went into effect in Florida on July 1st. A sampling: HB 7099- the $129.1 million package exempts sales taxes on food and drinks sold by veterans’ organizations; revises how taxes are calculated on alcohol and tobacco sales for cruise ships within Florida waters; on pear cider; and on an excise tax on aviation fuel. It Read more about New Laws Went into effect July 1st[…]

From the Capitol

The Capitol was busy early this year with the 2016 Legislative Session starting on January 12th.  Legislation passed in 2015 that directed the members to craft a budget and consider any proposals from January 12th – March 11th this year.  They will follow the same schedule in 2018. As a result, many legislators and staffers Read more about From the Capitol[…]

Governor Scott Signs 15 Bills into Law

HB 59           Agritourism – This bill prohibits local governments from enforcing regulations that limit agritourism and expands the definition of agritourism.  HB 75           Electronic Monitoring Devices – This bill makes it a felony to remove or tamper with an electronic monitoring device required by a court order.  HB 91           Severe Injuries Caused by Dogs – Read more about Governor Scott Signs 15 Bills into Law[…]

From the Capitol

We have reached the midpoint of the 2016 Legislative Session with 1,847 bills officially filed and working their way through the process. With the majority of the subcommittees completing their work last week, several bills are expected to die.  Issues may come back as amendments attached to other germane bills. Both chambers passed major pieces of Read more about From the Capitol[…]

From the Capitol

As part of the budget crafting process, Governor Rick Scott unveiled his 2016-2017 budget proposal on November 23rd.  While the Governor makes recommendations, it is the responsibility of the Florida Legislature to develop and pass a budget each year, which is then sent to the Governor for his consideration.  The Governor’s $79.3 billion proposed plan Read more about From the Capitol[…]