Bill > S0492

This bill amends Florida's contracting laws to establish minimum penalties for unlicensed contractors who violate state regulations. Specifically, the bill mandates that any unlicensed person convicted of contracting-related violations must be sentenced to either a minimum of 15 days in jail or 12 months of probation. The law targets individuals who falsely represent themselves as licensed contractors, use suspended or revoked certifications, perform work without proper permits, or deliberately disregard local ordinances related to contractor certification. By setting these minimum sentencing requirements, the bill aims to deter unlicensed contracting and protect consumers from potential fraud or substandard work. The bill also reenacts a related section of existing law to incorporate these new provisions and ensures that these penalties can be imposed in addition to other existing legal remedies. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2026, giving contractors and local authorities time to prepare for the new enforcement standards.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/492