HB 951 – One-Cent Piece

On Monday, February 2, HB 951 by Representative Fiona McFarland (R-Sarasota) was heard by the House Ways & Means Committee and was reported favorably. AIF stood in support of this legislation.

This bill clarifies the rounding rules for cash change in the future after the Federal Government stopped production of the penny. Depending on the change owed, the business may round up or down to avoid using a penny.

HB 951 will now go to the House Insurance & Banking Subcommittee.

AIF supports clarifying language in Florida Statutes for the business community to follow while dispensing cash change. As the penny becomes less common, making sure the state has clear and concise procedures will become increasingly important.

SB 526 - Commercial Construction Projects

On Monday, February 2, SB 526 was heard by the Senate Governmental Oversight and Accountability Committee and reported favorably. AIF stood in support of this legislation.

The bill makes reforms to Florida’s home construction process by regulating Florida’s permitting process and mitigating delays by local governments. The bill preempts certain building design elements that are purely aesthetic without any functional purposes. The bill will standardize construction processes and make it easier for responsible developers to build on the land they own.

SB 526 will go to the Senate Rules Committee.

AIF supports legislation that encourages responsible development and limits local government’s ability to deter development via permits and fees. Responsible development is key to assisting in mitigating the affordability issues in Florida.