Bill > H0707

This bill updates Florida's laws regarding gift certificates by expanding the definition of "gift certificate" to include reward cards, consumer loyalty cards, and promotional gift cards, and removing most provisions that previously allowed gift certificates to expire. The bill eliminates most circumstances where gift certificates could have expiration dates, previously allowing them only for charitable contributions (with a minimum 3-year validity) or employee-incentive programs (with a minimum 1-year validity). The legislation also modifies how gift certificates are treated in relation to secondhand goods definitions and unclaimed property regulations. Specifically, the bill clarifies that most gift certificates cannot have post-sale charges like service fees or dormancy fees, and it ensures that gift certificates issued as part of limited-duration events like conventions or sporting events have clear guidelines. The changes aim to provide more consumer protection by preventing businesses from imposing fees that could reduce the value of gift certificates over time. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, giving businesses and consumers ample time to understand and adapt to the new regulations.