IMPORTANT NEWS...
DBPR Secretary Commends Passage of Bill to Streamline Regulations
March 8, 2012
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Secretary Ken Lawson of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation today released the following statement on the passage of House Bill 517, which reduces and streamlines regulations within the Department:
"Businesses should be able to grow and thrive in our state, not stifle under unnecessary regulations. I commend the Legislature, especially this bill's sponsors, for standing up for our businesses, our people and our state with the passage of this important legislation."
HB 517 decriminalizes minor violations of rules for professional boards while maintaining the Department's ability to impose administrative remedies. The legislation also allows the Department to comply with federal real estate appraisal standards in a timely manner and reduces the continuing education requirement for inactive license holders.
The bill, which now heads to the Governor for his signature, was sponsored by Senator Alan Hays (R - Umatilla) and Representative J.W. Grant (R - Tampa). It was co-sponsored by Representatives Larry Ahern (R - St. Petersburg), Jeff Brandes (R - St. Petersburg) and Dana Young (R - Tampa).