On Monday, March 24, SB 1198 by Senator Nick DiCeglie (R-Indian Rocks Beach) was heard by the Senate Appropriations Committee on Criminal & Civil Justice and was reported favorably. AIF stood in support of this legislation.

This bill 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 Rules Committee for consideration.

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

On Monday, March 24, HB 1427 by Representative Griff Griffitts (R-Panama City) was heard by the House Commerce Committee and was reported favorably. AIF stood in support of this legislation.

HB 1247 is the House companion of SB 110 by Senator Corey Simon (R-Tallahassee) which is Senate President Ben Albritton’s “Rural Renaissance” plan to strengthen Florida’s rural communities by investing and restructuring Florida’s approach to rural community management. This bill creates grant programs designed to promote new economic opportunities and growth by providing broadband infrastructure to underserved populations. The bill also develops roadmaps to expand healthcare access and modernization tools for rural counties in need of economic stimulation.

HB 1247 will now go to the House Health & Human Services Committee for consideration.

AIF supports legislative efforts to boost economic vitality in Florida’s rural communities. These efforts will create jobs and allow businesses more opportunities for investment in the Sunshine State.