Richard Turner assumed the role of General Counsel and Senior Vice President of Government Relations for the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association in September of 2002.
He has been a member of the Florida Bar for more than 25 years and has more than 17 years’ experience in state government. His last position at the state was as Director of the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco, Department of Business & Professional Regulations (DBPR).
Turner represents the industry before the Florida Legislature, and such varied organizations as the Florida Cabinet, Department of Revenue, Department of Agriculture, Department of Business and Professional Regulation, and on occasion in Washington, DC.
He thinks the greatest threat facing the hospitality industry is the continuing growth of rules and regulations into every aspect of business.
Turner’s three top career moments include: the repeal of the alcoholic beverage surcharge, preemption to the state of paid leave, and the clarification of the communication services tax.