Matt Daus of Windels Marx
Florida Limousine Association (FLA) Counsel Matt Daus of Windels Marx reported that the association has filed a bill in late November in the Florida Senate, Bill 648, to seek relief for operators burdened with holding multiple permits to operate limousine companies in Florida. If this bill passes, it will be a landmark achievement for the FLA. The bill will ensure that limo operators have one permit, based on their company location, but may move freely with passengers in the state as directed. One of the bill sponsors is State Senator Nick DiCeglie (R).
"I am so pleased that FLA members and many other clients of our law firm will benefit from this groundbreaking legislation to support the industry and uphold regulatory standards,” says Daus. “This proposed legislation is modeled after one of the first reciprocity laws in the country that I drafted and helped pass in New York State when serving as NYC TLC Commissioner and General Counsel. Kudos to FLA leadership, including President Rick Versace, Executive Director Sara Richardson, FLA Board, and the lobbying team, for taking this bold common-sense step for the industry. Now everyone needs to roll up their sleeves and get it done!”
Currently, Florida has no reciprocity for operators between counties, and operators must be licensed in each county where they want to operate. This creates a complex and costly administrative burden, limiting their ability to transport customers across various regions and hindering their overall business growth.
With full reciprocity, operators would be free to operate seamlessly across all counties, eliminating the need for multiple licenses and reducing administrative costs significantly. This would allow them to expand their service area, reach new customers, and increase their revenue potential. Additionally, it would promote competition, leading to lower prices for customers and a more efficient market.
Visit floridalimousine.com for more information.
[12.11.23]