January 6, 2012

Dear Friends,

Next week, the Legislative Session for 2012 begins, and lawmakers will come to our capital city to discuss proposed legislation and vote on matters that affect our state.

This session, DBPR is closely monitoring many issues and is working with the Legislature to ensure that our state is developing a business-friendly atmosphere where our licensed businesses and professionals are not faced with over-regulation or rules that don't make any sense. We support smart deregulation that creates new jobs and helps businesses thrive while protecting the health, safety and welfare of Florida's public.

One of our initiatives focuses on decriminalizing petty violations that can get in the way of smart business. Some license violations can be addressed through the administrative process and don't need to carry a criminal penalty that overburdens our state prosecutors.

We are also proposing legislation that will waive licensing fees for military veterans within 24 months of being honorably discharged. We hope this will encourage military veterans who are transitioning into civilian life to choose Florida as their home.

I'm looking forward to the next 60 days, and I want to thank our legislators for their public service to our citizens and our state.

Sincerely,

Ken Lawson
Secretary

Department of Business and
Professional Regulation
1940 North Monroe Street
Tallahassee, Florida 32399
Customer Contact Center:
850.487.1395
www.MyFloridaLicense.com