SB 600 – Manufacturing

On Tuesday, March 11, SB 600 by Senator Keith Truenow (R-Tavares) was heard by the Senate Committee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development and was reported favorably with 15 yeas and 0 nays. AIF stood in support of this legislation.

This bill restructures Florida’s approach to encouraging manufacturing investments. At the Department of Commerce, the bill creates the role of “Chief Manufacturing Officer” to oversee the “Statewide Office of Manufacturing.” Additionally, the bill provides for a Florida’s Manufacturers’ Workforce Development Program designed to encourage small manufacturers with new technologies, cybersecurity protocols, and workforce training. The bill also creates a promotional campaign that boasts state-manufactured products to consumers.

SB 600 will now go to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration.

AIF supports initiatives that drive new manufacturing investment to the state and the promotion of “Made in Florida” products.

HB 913 – Condominium Associations

On Tuesday, March 11, HB 913 by Representative Vicki Lopez (R-Miami) was heard by the House Housing, Agriculture, & Tourism Subcommittee and was reported favorably with 18 yeas and 0 nays. AIF stood in support of this legislation.

HB 913 addresses multiple issues that have been ongoing in Florida’s vast condominium communities over recent years. Primarily, the bill focuses on safety guidelines for condominium associations to adhere to following the Surfside condominium collapse in 2021. The bill gives condominium associations more jurisdiction over repairs and structural inspections. Additionally, the language provides clarity on maintenance responsibilities for condominium properties jointly operated with hotels and allows for the development of shared facilities between condominiums and retail businesses.

HB 913 will now go to the House Budget Committee for consideration.

AIF supports legislation that expands Florida’s residential footprint and allows for better management of facilities occupied by businesses and residents.

SB 1198 – Fraudulent Use of Gift Cards

On Tuesday, March 11, SB 1198 by Senator Nick DiCeglie (R-Indian Rocks Beach) was heard by the Senate Criminal Justice Committee and was reported favorably with 9 yeas and 0 nays. AIF stood in support of this legislation.

SB 1198 establishes criminal penalties for those who illegally obtain, tamper with, or misuse gift cards sold by a business. There is a rising rate in the illegal use of gift cards in retail and online businesses that is costing Florida businesses millions. The penalties for fraudulently using gift cards would be a misdemeanor for all offenses under $950 in damages and a felony for offenses above $950 in damages.

SB 1198 will now go to the Senate Appropriations Committee on Criminal and Civil Justice for consideration.

AIF supports legislation that deters criminal acts against Florida businesses by establishing criminal penalties for those who commit them.

SB 492 – Mitigation Banking

On Tuesday, March 11, SB 492 by Senator Stan McClain (R-Ocala) was heard in the Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee and was reported favorably with 8 yeas and 0 nays. AIF stood in support of this legislation.

SB 492 expands laws passed by the legislature in 2024 that provided credits for environmental mitigation projects. The proposed legislation would allow state agencies who govern mitigation credits to offer credits outside the service area of authorized mitigation banks. This is a resource already available at the federal level.

HB 492 will now go to the House Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government Committee for consideration.

AIF supports legislation that expands access to water quality mitigation projects. These measures would allow businesses to operate effectively while working alongside regulators on lands/waterways categorized as mitigation banks.