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Tallahassee, FL - Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed two bills aimed at strengthening property rights by streamlining the process for commercial property and hotel owners to remove unauthorized occupants.
Senate Bill 322 allows commercial property owners to request immediate removal of individuals unlawfully occupying their properties.
To initiate this process, property owners must submit a verified complaint to the county sheriff, confirming their ownership and that the occupants are unauthorized.
Upon verification, sheriffs are authorized to serve notice and remove the individuals from the premises.
The bill also introduces stricter penalties for unauthorized occupants who cause significant property damage, classifying damages exceeding $1,000 as a second-degree felony.
Senate Bill 606 addresses issues within the hospitality industry, particularly concerning guests who overstay or fail to pay for their accommodations.
The bill clarifies that stays in hotels, motels, vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, or timeshares are considered transient unless a written agreement states otherwise.
This distinction allows law enforcement to remove non-paying guests without requiring property owners to undergo lengthy eviction processes.
Additionally, the bill mandates that public food service establishments clearly disclose any automatic service charges or gratuities on menus, contracts, and receipts.
Governor DeSantis emphasized the importance of these measures in protecting property owners' rights and maintaining order.
DeSantis stated, "Property rights are essential to maintaining an orderly and stable society. Businesses, including hotels and motels, should not be forced to go through arduous and costly eviction processes to reclaim their property from unauthorized occupants."
The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) expressed support for the new legislation.
Both SB 322 and SB 606 are set to take effect on July 1st, providing commercial property and hotel owners with enhanced tools to address unauthorized occupancy and protect their investments.