Ahead of potential landfall of Invest 97L (now Potential Tropical Cyclone 4) in Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order (EO) 24-156 (Emergency Management  – Invest 97L) declaring the following counties under a state of emergency: Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford, Calhoun, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, Dixie, Duval, Escambia, Flagler, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lake, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Monroe, Nassau, Okaloosa, Orange, Osceola, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Santa Rosa, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union, Volusia, Wakulla, Walton, and Washington counties.

To read the full executive order, click here or read below:

 STATE OF FLORIDA
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
EXECUTIVE ORDER NUMBER 24-156
Executive Order 24-156 (Emergency Management  – Invest 97L)

WHEREAS, as of 12:00 PM EDT on August 1, 2024, a tropical wave, now identified as Invest 97L, is producing a large area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms over Hispaniola, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands; and

WHEREAS, based on meteorological reports, highly conducive environmental conditions are forecast to organize and develop Invest 97L into a tropical depression over the weekend and early next week over the eastern Gulf of Mexico near the Florida Peninsula; and

WHEREAS, based on meteorological reports, there is significant threat of heavy rainfall over most of the State of Florida, with the possibility of at least twelve (12) inches of rainfall over the next seven (7) days; and

WHEREAS, prolonged heavy rainfall will result in flash flooding, river flooding, coastal flooding, erosion, and gusty winds; and

WHEREAS, these conditions could damage the operational capability of critical infrastructure to include major interstates and roadways, bridges, airports, schools, hospitals, power grids, and other critical infrastructure; and

WHEREAS, the water tables in the affected areas are already nearing peak capacity and incoming heavy rainfall will cause significant river flooding that may last for several weeks; and

WHEREAS, the incoming heavy rainfall, flooding, and gusty winds will cause widespread power outages due to downed trees and powerlines; and

WHEREAS, as Governor of Florida, I am responsible to meet the dangers presented to the State of Florida and its people by this emergency.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Ron DeSantis, as Governor of Florida, by virtue of the authority vested in me by Article IV, Section 1(a) of the Florida Constitution and by the Florida Emergency Management Act, as amended, and all other applicable laws, promulgate the following Executive Order, to take immediate effect:

Section 1.        Because of the foregoing conditions, which are projected to constitute a major disaster, I declare that a state of emergency exists in Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford, Calhoun, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, Dixie, Duval, Escambia, Flagler, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lake, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Monroe, Nassau, Okaloosa, Orange, Osceola, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Santa Rosa, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union, Volusia, Wakulla, Walton, and Washington counties.

Section 2.        I designate the Executive Director of the Division of Emergency Management (“Director”) as the State Coordinating Officer for the duration of this emergency and direct him to execute the State’s Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan and other response, recovery, and mitigation plans necessary to cope with the emergency, including any logistical, rescue or evacuation operations. Pursuant to section 252.36(1)(a), Florida Statutes, I delegate to the State Coordinating Officer the authority to exercise those powers delineated in sections 252.36(6)-(12), Florida Statutes, which he shall exercise as needed to meet this emergency, subject to the limitations of section 252.33, Florida Statutes. In exercising the powers delegated by this Executive Order, the State Coordinating Officer shall confer with the Governor to the fullest extent practicable.  The State Coordinating Officer shall also have the authority to:

252. Invoke and administer the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (“EMAC”) (sections 252.921-252.9335, Florida Statutes) and other compacts and agreements existing between the State of Florida and other states, and the further authority to coordinate the allocation of resources from such other states that are made available to Florida under such compacts and agreements so as to best meet this emergency.
253. Seek direct assistance and enter into agreements with any and all agencies of the federal government as may be needed to meet this emergency.
254. Direct all state, regional, and local governmental agencies, including law enforcement agencies, to identify personnel needed from those agencies to assist in meeting the response, recovery, and mitigation needs created by this emergency, and to place all such personnel under the direct command and coordination of the State Coordinating Officer to meet this emergency.
     D. Direct the actions of any state agency as necessary to implement the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Disaster Recovery Framework.
     E. Designate Deputy State Coordinating Officers and Deputy State Disaster Recovery Coordinators, as necessary.
     F. Suspend the effect of any statute, rule, or order that would in any way prevent, hinder, or delay any mitigation, response, or recovery action necessary to cope with this emergency. In accordance with section 252.3611(1), Florida Statutes, any such order, declaration, or other action shall specify each statute or rule being amended or waived, if applicable, and the expiration date for the order or action.
     G. Enter orders as may be needed to implement any of the foregoing powers; however, the requirements of sections 252.46 and 120.54(4), Florida Statutes, do not apply to any such orders issued by the State Coordinating Officer. No such order shall remain in effect beyond the expiration of this Executive Order, including any extension thereof.Section 3.        I order the Adjutant General to activate the Florida National Guard, as needed, to deal with this emergency. I further order the Director of the Florida State Guard to activate the Florida State Guard, as needed, to respond to this emergency.Section 4.        I find that the special duties and responsibilities resting upon some state, regional, and local agencies and other governmental bodies in responding to this emergency may require them to suspend or waive certain statutes, rules, ordinances, and orders they administer.  Therefore, I issue the following authorizations:
     A. Pursuant to section 252.36(6)(a), Florida Statutes, the Executive Office of the Governor may suspend all statutes and rules affecting budgeting to the extent necessary to provide budget authority for state agencies to cope with this emergency. The requirements of sections 252.46 and 120.54(4), Florida Statutes, do not apply to any such suspension issued by the Executive Office of the Governor. No such suspension shall remain in effect beyond the expiration of this Executive Order, including any extension thereof.
     B. Each state agency may suspend the provisions of any regulatory statute prescribing the procedures for conduct of state business or the orders or rules of that agency, if strict compliance with the provisions of any such statute, order, or rule would in any way prevent, hinder, or delay necessary action in coping with the emergency.  This includes, but is not limited to, the authority to suspend any and all statutes, rules, ordinances, or orders which affect leasing, printing, purchasing, travel, and the condition of employment and the compensation of employees.  In accordance with section 252.3611(1), Florida Statutes, any agency order, declaration, or other action suspending a statute or rule shall specify each statute or rule being amended or waived, if applicable, and the expiration date for the order or action.  The requirements of sections 252.46 and 120.54(4), Florida Statutes, shall not apply to any such suspension issued by a state agency. No such suspension shall remain in effect beyond the expiration of this Executive Order, including any extension thereof.
     C. In accordance with section 252.38(3), Florida Statutes, each political subdivision within the State of Florida may waive the procedures and formalities otherwise required of the political subdivision by law pertaining to:
     1) Performance of public work and taking whatever prudent action is necessary to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of the community;
     2) Following local procurement and contracting policies;
     3) Entering into contracts; however, political subdivisions are cautioned against entering into time and materials contracts without a ceiling as defined by 2 CFR 200.318(j) or cost plus a percentage of cost contracts prohibited by 2 CFR 200.324(d);
     4) Incurring obligations;
     5) Employment of permanent and temporary workers;
     6) Utilization of volunteer workers;
     7) Rental of equipment;
     8) Acquisition and distribution, with or without compensation, of supplies, materials, and facilities; and
     9) Appropriation and expenditure of public funds.
     D. All agencies whose employees are certified as disaster service volunteers within the meaning of section 110.120(2)(d), Florida Statutes, may, in accordance with section 110.120(3), Florida Statutes, release any such employees for such service as requested by the employee to meet this emergency.
     E. The Secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation (DOT) may:
     1) Waive the collection of tolls and other fees and charges for the use of the Turnpike and other public highways, to the extent such waiver may be needed to provide emergency assistance or facilitate the evacuation of the affected counties;
     2) Manage the flow of traffic or close any and all roads, highways, and portions of highways as may be needed for the safe and efficient transportation of evacuees to those counties that the State Coordinating Officer may designate as destination counties for evacuees in this emergency;
     3) Suspend enforcement of the registration requirements pursuant to section 316.545(4), Florida Statutes, for commercial motor vehicles that enter Florida to provide emergency services or supplies, to transport emergency equipment, supplies or personnel, or to transport FEMA mobile homes or office style mobile homes into or from Florida;
     4) Waive by special permit the warning signal requirements in the Utility Accommodations Manual to accommodate public utility companies from other jurisdictions which render assistance in restoring vital services; and

5) Waive the size and weight restrictions for divisible loads on any vehicles transporting emergency equipment, services, supplies, and agricultural commodities and citrus as recommended by the Commissioner of Agriculture, allowing the establishment of alternate size and weight restrictions for all such vehicles for the duration of the emergency. The DOT shall issue permits and such vehicles shall be subject to such special conditions as the DOT may endorse on any such permits.
Nothing in this Executive Order shall be construed to allow any vehicle to exceed weight limits posted for bridges and like structures, or relieve any vehicle or the carrier, owner, or driver of any vehicle from compliance with any restrictions other than those specified in this Executive Order, or from any statute, rule, order, or other legal requirement not specifically waived or suspended herein or by supplemental order by the State Coordinating Officer.
F. The Executive Director of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) may:
1) Suspend enforcement of the registration requirements pursuant to sections 316.545(4) and 320.0715, Florida Statutes, for commercial motor vehicles that enter Florida to provide emergency services or supplies, to transport emergency equipment, supplies or personnel, or to transport FEMA mobile homes or office style mobile homes into or from Florida;
2) Waive the hours-of-service requirements for such vehicles;
3) Suspend the enforcement of the licensing and registration requirements under the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) pursuant to chapter 207, Florida Statutes, and the International Registration Plan (IRP) pursuant to section 320.0715, Florida Statutes, for motor carriers or drivers operating commercial motor vehicles that are properly registered in other jurisdictions and that are participating in emergency relief efforts through the transportation of equipment and supplies or providing other assistance in the form of emergency services;
4) Waive fees for duplicate or replacement vessel registration certificates, vessel title certificates, vehicle license plates, vehicle registration certificates, vehicle tag certificates, vehicle title certificates, handicapped parking permits, replacement drivers’ licenses, and replacement identification cards and to waive the additional fees for the late renewal of or application for such licenses, certificates, and documents due to the effects of adverse weather conditions; and
5) Defer administrative actions and waive fees imposed by law for the late renewal or application for the above licenses, certificates, and documents, which were delayed due to the effects of adverse weather conditions, including in counties wherein the DHSMV has closed offices, or any office of the County Tax Collector that acts on behalf of the DHSMV to process renewals has closed offices due to adverse weather conditions.
Recordkeeping and other applicable requirements for existing IFTA and IRP licensees and registrants are not affected by this Executive Order.  The DHSMV shall promptly notify the State Coordinating Officer when the waiver is no longer necessary.
G. In accordance with section 465.0275(2), Florida Statutes, pharmacists may dispense up to a 30-day emergency prescription refill of maintenance medication to persons who reside in an area or county covered under this Executive Order and to emergency personnel who have been activated by their state or local agency but who do not reside in an area or county covered by this Executive Order.  In accordance with section 465.019(4)(b), Florida Statutes, a hospital that operates a Class II or Class III institutional pharmacy located in an area or county covered under this Executive Order may prescribe and dispense a supply of medicinal drug lasting up to 72 hours.
H. All state agencies responsible for the use of state buildings and facilities may close such buildings and facilities in those portions of the State affected by this emergency, to the extent necessary to meet this emergency.  I direct each state agency to report the closure of any State building or facility to the WebEOC system utilized by the Division of Emergency Management.  Under the authority contained in section 252.36, Florida Statutes, I direct each county to report the closure of any building or facility operated or maintained by the county or any political subdivision on a daily basis to the WebEOC system.  Furthermore, I direct the Secretary of the Department of Management Services to:
1) Maintain an accurate and up-to-date list of all such closures; and
2) Provide that list daily to the State Coordinating Officer.
I. All State agencies may abrogate the time requirements, notice requirements, and deadlines for final action on applications for permits, licenses, rates, and other approvals under any statutes or rules under which such application are deemed to be approved unless disapproved in writing by specified deadlines. All such time requirements that have not yet expired as of the date of this Executive Order are suspended and tolled to the extent necessary to meet this emergency.
J. All agencies shall implement Selected Exempt Services (SES) Extraordinary Payment Plans and Career Service Regular Compensatory Leave Payment Plans for:
1) All essential agency personnel who are required to work extraordinary hours when state-owned or state-operated facilities are closed in response to an emergency condition.  Employees who are eligible to receive extraordinary pay under the agency’s activated plan shall accrue special compensatory leave credits for work performed during facility closures up to the number of hours in the employee’s established workday.  For these employees, any additional time worked beyond the employee’s established workday during facility closures will result in extraordinary pay;
2) All agency personnel who are assigned to the State Emergency Operations Center and are required to work extraordinary hours; and
3) All agency personnel who are deployed throughout the state in response to an emergency condition and are required to work extraordinary hours.
K. All State agencies may waive the forty-day time limit to issue a warrant pursuant to section 215.422(3)(b), Florida Statutes.  This waiver applies to invoices and reimbursement requests arising from this emergency that were received, inspected, and approved by the agency prior to the expiration of this Executive Order, including any extension thereof.  This waiver of section 215.422(3)(b), Florida Statutes, and all waivers based upon this waiver shall expire upon the expiration of this Executive Order, including any extension thereof.
L. The provisions of section 934.50, Florida Statutes, excluding subsection (4), are waived for state and local agencies conducting emergency operations arising from the state of emergency for the limited purpose of capturing aerial evidence concerning the amount of damage sustained to private and public property; to assist in search, rescue, and recovery activities; and prevent imminent danger to life or serious damage to property.

Section 5.        All public facilities, including elementary and secondary schools, community colleges, state universities, and other facilities owned or leased by the state, regional or local governments that are suitable for use as public shelters shall be made available at the request of the local emergency management agencies to ensure the proper reception and care of all evacuees.  Under the authority contained in section 252.36, Florida Statutes, I direct the Superintendent of each public-school district in the State of Florida to report the closure of any school within its district to the Commissioner of the Florida Department of Education.  Furthermore, I direct the Commissioner of the Department of Education to:
A.Maintain an accurate and up-to-date list of all such closures; and
B. Provide that list daily to the State Coordinating Officer.

Section 6.        I find that the demands placed upon funds specifically appropriated to state and local agencies for disaster relief or response are unreasonably great and that such funds may be inadequate to pay the costs of coping with this emergency.  In accordance with section 252.37(2), Florida Statutes, I direct that sufficient funds be made available, as needed, by transferring and expending moneys from the Emergency Preparedness and Response Fund.

Section 7.        All state agencies entering emergency orders, emergency rules, or other emergency actions in response to this emergency shall advise the State Coordinating Officer contemporaneously or as soon as practicable thereafter, and, pursuant to section 252.36(3)(b), Florida Statutes, shall submit the order or declaration to the Division of Administrative Hearings within five (5) days of issuance.

Section 8.        Medical professionals and workers, social workers, and counselors with good and valid professional licenses issued by states other than the State of Florida may render such services in Florida during this emergency for persons affected by this emergency with the condition that such services be rendered to such persons free of charge, and with the further condition that such services be rendered under the auspices of the American Red Cross or the Florida Department of Health.

Section 9. Pursuant to section 501.160, Florida Statutes, it is unlawful and a violation of section 501.204, Florida Statutes, for a person to rent or sell or offer to rent or sell at an unconscionable price within the area for which the state of emergency is declared, any essential commodity including, but not limited to, supplies, services, provisions, or equipment that is necessary for consumption or use as a direct result of the emergency.

Section 10. Under the authority contained in sections 252.36(6)(a), (g), and (m), Florida Statutes, I direct that, for the purposes of this emergency, the term “essentials”, as defined by section 252.359(2), Florida Statutes, shall be the same as and no more expansive than the term “commodity”, as defined by section 501.160(1)(a), Florida Statutes (hereinafter referred to collectively or alternatively as “essential commodities”).  Accordingly, any person who delivers essential commodities to a location in the area(s) declared to be under a state of emergency by this Executive Order, and when necessary to ensure that those commodities are made available to the public, may travel within evacuated areas and exceed curfews, provided the State Coordinating Officer determines, after consultation with the appropriate Emergency Support Function(s), that:
A. Law enforcement officials in the declared area(s) can provide adequate security to protect the essential commodities from theft;
B. The weight of a delivery vehicle will not jeopardize the structural integrity of any roadway or bridge located within the declared area;
C. Delivery vehicles will not negatively impact evacuation activities in the declared area(s); and
D. Delivery vehicles will not negatively impact any response or recovery activities occurring within the declared area(s).
After consulting with the appropriate Emergency Support Function(s), and after consulting with local officials, the State Coordinating Officer may dictate the routes of ingress, egress, and movement within the declared area(s) that drivers must follow when delivering essential commodities.
Provided he or she is actually delivering medications, any person authorized to deliver medications under chapter 893, Florida Statutes, qualifies as a person delivering essential commodities.
In order to qualify as a person delivering essential commodities under this section, a person must be in the process of delivering essential commodities only.  If an individual is transporting both essential and non-essential commodities, then this section shall not provide any authorization for that individual to enter into or move within the declared area(s).

Section 11.        Consistent with Executive Order 80-29, nothing in this Executive Order shall prevent local jurisdictions in any area not declared to be under a state of emergency by this Executive Order from taking prompt and necessary action to save lives and protect the property of their citizens, including the authority to compel and direct timely evacuation when necessary.

Section 12. I authorize the Florida Housing Finance Corporation to distribute funds pursuant to section 420.9073, Florida Statutes, to any county, municipality, or other political subdivision located within the area(s) declared to be under a state of emergency by this Executive Order.  The authority of the Florida Housing Finance Corporation to distribute funds in connection with this emergency shall expire six months after the expiration of this Executive Order, including any extension thereof.

 Section 13.        All actions taken by the Director of the Division of Emergency Management with respect to this emergency before the issuance of this Executive Order are ratified.

 Section 14.  This Executive Order is effective immediately and shall expire sixty (60) days from this date unless extended.

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Tipping might seem like a simple exchange – a thank you for good service with a few extra bucks. But scratch beneath the surface, and you’ll find a fascinating hidden economy pulsing within your restaurant. This ecosystem connects everyone, from the strategic minds of the operators to the tireless hands of the dishwashers. Continue reading to learn how tipping impacts each “haus” in your restaurant and might have a bigger impact on your employee retention than you think.

Operators: The Big Picture Planners

What it Means: For restaurant operators, tipping is an integral part of the financial structure. It directly influences labor costs, payroll, and overall profitability. Tipping policies can significantly impact hiring practices, employee retention, and customer satisfaction.

The Role: Operators establish and enforce tipping policies, ensuring they comply with local laws and industry standards. They also consider how tipping fits into their broader business model and financial planning, making strategic decisions to support long-term success.

How They Receive Tips: Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), tips are considered the property of the employees who receive them. This federal regulation explicitly prohibits owners, operators, and supervisors from retaining any part of the employees’ tips.

Managers: Leading Tip Distribution Efforts

What it Means: For managers, tipping is both a benefit and a challenge. It boosts employee morale and encourages excellent service, but managing and distributing tips can be complicated. This process often involves detailed and time-consuming calculations, tracking shifts, and ensuring fairness.

The Role: Managers are responsible for ensuring that tips are fairly distributed among staff. They must also balance this with other duties such as inventory management and scheduling, making their role critical in maintaining both operational efficiency and staff satisfaction.

How They Receive Tips: Managers are not allowed to keep any portion of employee tips, regardless of how tips are distributed (directly or through a tip pool). This applies even if tipped employees make at least the federal minimum wage and the restaurant doesn’t take a tip credit.

Front of House: The Face of the Restaurant

What it Means: For front-of-house staff (servers, bartenders, hosts), tips constitute a major portion of their income. These tips incentivize employees to provide outstanding service, directly impacting their earnings and customer satisfaction.

The Role: These employees interact directly with customers, shaping their dining experience. They need to be personable, efficient, and knowledgeable about the menu to maximize their tips, making their role essential to both customer satisfaction and their income.

How They Receive Tips: Front-of-house staff can receive tips in various ways, including cash tips directly from customers, tips added to credit card payments, and tips distributed through tip pooling systems.

Learn more about understanding tipped employee rights.

Back of House: Essential Contributors to Restaurant Excellence

What it Means: For back-of-house staff (chefs, line cooks, dishwashers), the connection to tipping is less direct. They usually don’t receive individual tips, but their work is vital to the overall quality of service. Some restaurants implement tip pooling to ensure these critical team members also benefit from tips.

The Role: Back-of-house staff are responsible for preparing and presenting high-quality dishes. Their efficiency and skill directly affect the dining experience, which in turn impacts the tips received by the front-of-house staff.

How They Receive Tips: Generally, back-of-house staff like cooks and dishwashers are ineligible unless the restaurant pays tipped employees the full minimum wage without a tip credit. However, there’s some leeway for certain roles that interact with customers, like hosts or food runners. Consulting court cases like Kilgore v. Outback Steakhouse (hosts) or Budrow v. Dave & Busters (bartenders who don’t serve tables directly) can provide more specific examples.

Payroll: Ensuring Tip Accuracy

What it Means: For the payroll department, tipping adds complexity to their responsibilities. They must ensure accurate and timely distribution of tips while complying with tax laws and accounting standards.

The Role: Payroll professionals track tips, calculate taxes, and ensure compliance with regulations. Their role is crucial in maintaining fairness and accuracy in tip distribution, ensuring that all employees are compensated correctly.

How They Receive Tips: Payroll employees do not receive tips as their role does not involve direct customer interaction that typically earns gratuities. Their focus remains on ensuring that tips are accurately distributed to eligible employees in compliance with all regulations.

The Solution: TipHaus Revolutionizes Tipping Management

Each of these roles faces unique challenges related to tipping. What if there was a solution to streamline the process and protect your restaurant from legal liability for everyone involved?

Introducing TipHaus.

TipHaus is a revolutionary tip calculation and distribution system designed to simplify the process for everyone:

Owners/Operators will experience significant time savings, ensured compliance, and consistent support, ultimately saving money and reducing operational headaches.

Hear what Marty Hillis, Director of Operations for The Ram has to say about TipHaus!

“After switching to TipHaus from Gratuity Solutions, I don’t have to verify anything manually. There is 0 room for error and no need for concerns about compliance with legal requirements. TipHaus is an operational dream for any multi-unit restaurant management.”

Managers will appreciate the time saved by automating tip calculations with customizable rules applied directly to sales data.

“Our tip structures were complex, and frankly, we weren’t sure if TipHaus could handle them, but after the trial, it was a clear winner. We used to spend 8 hours a week manually calculating tips. Now, it takes just 20 minutes a day! TipHaus is incredibly customizable and works seamlessly. Plus, the remote access is fantastic – we can make adjustments

from anywhere, even our phones. We’re thrilled with TipHaus and highly recommend it to businesses of all sizes. If you are wasting time in spreadsheets, you won’t regret it!” –Diego Decordova, General Manager for Gage Hospitality Group

Payroll departments will benefit from the ease of uploading a single report for quick and accurate employee payouts.

See how TipHaus impacts payroll from Jean-Pierre Mouren-Laurens, VP of Finance at Wood Ranch.

“We’ve experienced remarkable efficiency gains in managing our tip program. With TipHaus, our managers and team members save over 35 hours of manual labor per month at each location. This goes beyond streamlining operations. TipHaus has freed up our time by eliminating the need to secure cash for daily tip-outs, empowered us to boost team member retention through fair tip distribution and service charges, and reduced our compliance risks, cash handling costs, and labor expenses!

Employees will enjoy transparency and rapid access to their earned tips, often receiving credit card tips the next day.

TipHaus integrates seamlessly with your restaurant’s existing systems, transforming the tipping process into a smooth, automated operation. By eliminating manual calculations and ensuring fair tip distribution, TipHaus enhances efficiency, compliance, and employee satisfaction.

Embrace tipping automation with TipHaus and say goodbye to the complexities of tip management. Welcome a new era of simplicity, accuracy, and fairness in your restaurant’s tipping practices.

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TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that tourism to Florida has reached unprecedented levels, solidifying Florida’s status as the premier destination for travelers worldwide. Revised figures for 2023 show that Florida welcomed more than 140.6 million visitors, breaking previous records. Additionally, Florida’s first quarter of 2024 hit 40.6 million visitors, the highest ever recorded for a single quarter.

“Once again, Florida leads the nation as an unrivaled destination for tourists,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “These record-breaking numbers show that our work has made the free state of Florida even more attractive to visitors.”

According to revised figures for 2023, Florida welcomed 140.6 million visitors, marking an increase of 2.3% from 2022’s record-breaking figure and establishing a new benchmark for visitation to the state. Domestic visitation reached an all-time high, with 129.1 million domestic visitors choosing to come to Florida in 2023, along with 8.3 million overseas visitors and 3.2 million Canadian visitors.

The momentum of unprecedented growth carried into the first quarter of 2024, with domestic visitation hitting a new high of 37.2 million, the highest ever recorded for a single quarter. Overseas visitation stood at 2.1 million, and Canadian visitation rose to 1.3 million. The total visitation for Q1 2024 shattered records, with an impressive 40.6 million visitors, a 1.2% year-over-year increase and the highest number of visitors ever received in a single quarter.

“Florida continues to welcome visitors with open arms,” said Dana Young, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA. “The record-breaking visitation seen in 2023 and continued through the first quarter of 2024 reaffirms Florida’s status as a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide.”

Highlights from VISIT FLORIDA’s revised 2023 visitation estimates include:

• Grand total visitation has been revised from 135.0m (down -1.7% year over year) to 140.6m (up 2.3% YoY), making 2023 another record year for highest visitation ever.
• Domestic visitation in 2023 was revised from -3.8% YoY to +1.1% YoY, making 2023 the highest level of domestic visitation ever.

Highlights from VISIT FLORIDA’s Quarter 1 visitation estimates include:

• Preliminary estimates indicate that 40.6 million total visitors (in person-trips) traveled to Florida in the first quarter (Q1) of 2024, a +1.2% increase from Q1 2023. This was the largest number of visitors on record for a single quarter, driven by the continuing recovery of international travel and continued strong domestic performance. Domestic visitors were 91.6% of the total, while overseas visitors accounted for 5.2% and Canadian visitors accounted for 3.2%.
• Domestic visitation in Q1 2024 is estimated at a record high 37.2 million, a +0.2% increase from Q1 2023.
• The preliminary air/non-air ratio for domestic, non-resident visitors in Q1 2024 is estimated at 38.2%/61.8%. The share of visitors traveling by air exceeded both Q1 2023 and pre-pandemic Q1 2019.
• Overseas visitation is estimated at 2.1 million in Q1 2024, an +18.4% increase from Q1 2023. Visitation was down by -6.4% from Q1 2019, marking the closest that overseas visitation has come to full recovery since the onset of the pandemic.
• Canadian visitation is estimated at 1.3 million in Q1 2024, an increase of 6.9% from Q1 2023.
• Total enplanements at 19 Florida airports increased by +9.4% in Q1 2024 from Q1 2023, climbing to 30.2 million.
• Orlando International was the state’s busiest airport with 7.6 million enplanements (+6.8%), followed by Miami with 7.5 million (+12.1%). The largest relative increase in enplanements was seen at Fort Myers airport (+25.2%), though Tallahassee also saw notable growth (+18.7%). The only airports to see decreases were Sanford (-3.5%) and Daytona (-0.6%).
• Domestic enplanements at 19 Florida airports grew by +8.9% in Q1 2024 from Q1 2023. Domestic enplanements accounted for 81.6% of total enplanements, down from 82.0% in Q1 2023.

VISIT FLORIDA conducts regular revisions to visitor estimates, ensuring data accuracy as new information is collected and resources are identified.

As tourism to Florida continues to soar to new heights, these record-breaking figures underscore the state’s unwavering appeal. With unparalleled natural beauty, world-class attractions, and a commitment to freedom, Florida remains a beacon for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences.

~ $2 Million is Available for Businesses Impacted by North Florida Tornadoes ~

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, FloridaCommerce announced that Governor Ron DeSantis activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making $2 million available for businesses impacted by the recent severe weather that impacted North Florida. Florida small business owners in need of assistance are encouraged to visit www.FloridaJobs.org/EBL  to apply for the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program. Businesses in Baker, Columbia, Escambia, Gadsden, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Suwannee, Taylor, and Wakulla counties, including sole proprietors, are eligible to apply.

The program provides short-term, zero-interest loans to small businesses that experienced economic injury or physical damage due to May North Florida Tornadoes. Interested applicants can apply now through July 10, 2024, or until all available funds are expended.

“Thanks to the leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis, FloridaCommerce was grateful for the opportunity to support the Hope Florida team and Florida Department of Children and Families Secretary, Shevaun Harris on Saturday and Sunday, helping residents with all manner of needs; and we were grateful to have partners like Senator Corey Simon and Leon County Commissioner Christian Caban on the ground working with us,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “Now we are quickly mobilizing this Emergency Bridge Loan financial support for small businesses that may need help making payroll and bridging the way to normalcy during this interruption to their normal course of business.”

“As hard-working small businesses prepare for continued challenges ahead, we’re working to get financial assistance to you and the families you support as quickly as possible,” said State Senator Corey Simon. “These are tough times, but we will get through them together.”

“I want to thank FloridaCommerce for their swift action to make this bridge loan program available to small businesses in District 2,” said Leon County Commissioner Christian Caban. “All three tornadoes that impacted Leon County touched down in District 2 and this loan program is exactly what our businesses need to stay afloat as they address the damage caused by these storms. This program is a perfect reflection of the good that can be done when the government works for the people.”

Eligible small businesses may apply for loans of up to $50,000 through the program. Loans approved through the Emergency Bridge Loan Program are intended to “bridge the gap” between the time a disaster impacts a business and when a business has secured longer term recovery funding, such as federally or commercially available loans, insurance claims, or other resources.

FloridaCommerce administers the Emergency Bridge Loan Program alongside its fiscal administrator, Florida First Capital Finance Corporation. Loans made under this program are short-term, zero-interest, personal loans using State of Florida funds. They are not grants and loans must be repaid by the approved applicant.

Visit www.FloridaJobs.org/EBL  to learn more about the program, view the lending guidelines and required documentation, and complete an application by the July 10, 2024, deadline. Business owners who need further program information may call 833-832-4494 Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time.

Following the severe weather that impacted North Florida on Friday, May 10, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order (EO) 24-94 (May North Florida Tornadoes). Today, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-95, expanding the number of counties under a state of emergency to 15 counties. Counties included in the executive order are: Baker, Columbia, Escambia, Gadsden, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Suwannee, Taylor, and Wakulla counties.

To read the full executive order, click here or read below:

STATE OF FLORIDA

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

EXECUTIVE ORDER NUMBER 24-95

(Amending Executive Order 24-94, Emergency Management – May North Florida Tornadoes)

WHEREAS, on May 10, 2024, I issued Executive Order 24-94, declaring a state of emergency for several counties across North Florida due to the dangers presented by an intense thunderstorm that caused numerous tornadoes and strong wind gusts across North Florida; and

WHEREAS, thousands of Floridians in North Florida have lost power and are further impacted due to the widespread debris caused by the tornadoes, strong winds and heavy rain; and

WHEREAS, as the Governor of Florida, I am responsible to meet the dangers presented to the State of Florida and its people by this emergency.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Ron DeSantis, as Governor of Florida, by virtue of the authority vested in me by Article IV, Section 1(a) of the Florida Constitution and by the Florida Emergency Management Act, as amended, and all other applicable laws, promulgate the following Executive Order, to take immediate effect:

Section 1.        Section l of Executive Order 24-94 is amended to read as follows:

Because of the foregoing conditions, which are expected to constitute a major disaster, I declare that a state of emergency exists in Baker, Columbia, Escambia, Gadsden, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Suwannee, Taylor, and Wakulla counties.

Section 2.        Except as amended herein, Executive Order 24-94 is ratified and reaffirmed.

Section 3.        This Executive Order is effective immediately and shall expire upon the expiration of Executive Order 24-94.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of Florida to be affixed, at Tallahassee, this 13th day of May, 2024.

Florida Commerce Activates Business Damage Assessment Survey here.

Following the severe weather that impacted North Florida on Friday, May 10, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-94 (May North Florida Tornadoes), to include 12 counties under a state of emergency from severe weather impacting the state of Florida. Counties included in the executive order are: Baker, Columbia, Gadsden, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Suwannee, Taylor, and Wakulla counties.

To read the full executive order, click here or read below:

WHEREAS, in the early morning hours of May 10, 2024, an intense thunderstorm moved across the western United States and brought severe weather across North Florida; and

WHEREAS, numerous tornadoes and strong wind gusts caused significant damage to critical state infrastructure, including wind and tree fall damage to residences, businesses, powerlines, and other infrastructure across North Florida; and

WHEREAS, thousands of Floridians in North Florida have lost power and are further impacted due to the widespread debris caused by the tornadoes, strong winds and heavy rain; and

WHEREAS, several incidents of storm related injuries have been reported to the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s State Watch Office; and

WHEREAS, state meteorologists have confirmed the possibility of additional lingering storms and severe weather later today for North Florida; and

WHEREAS, as Governor of Florida, I am responsible to meet the dangers presented to the State of Florida and its people by this emergency.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Ron DeSantis, as Governor of Florida, by virtue of the authority vested in me by Article IV, Section 1(a) of the Florida Constitution and by the Florida Emergency Management Act, as amended, and all other applicable laws, promulgate the following Executive Order, to take immediate effect:

Section 1.        Because of the foregoing conditions, which are expected to constitute a major disaster, I declare that a state of emergency exists in Baker, Columbia, Gadsden, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Suwannee, Taylor, and Wakulla counties.

Section 2 .        I designate the Director of the Division of Emergency Management (“Director”) as the State Coordinating Officer for the duration of this emergency and direct him to execute the State’s Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan and other response, recovery and mitigation plans necessary to cope with the emergency.  Pursuant to section 252.36(1)(a), Florida Statutes, I delegate to the State Coordinating Officer the authority to exercise those powers delineated in sections 252.36(6)-(12), Florida Statutes, which he shall exercise as needed to meet this emergency, subject to the limitations of section 252.33, Florida Statutes.  In exercising the powers delegated by this Executive Order, the State Coordinating Officer shall confer with the Governor to the fullest extent practicable.  The State Coordinating Officer shall also have the authority to:

A. Invoke and administer the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (“EMAC”) (sections 252.921-252.9335, Florida Statutes) and other compacts and agreements existing between the State of Florida and other states, and the further authority to coordinate the allocation of resources from such other states that are made available to Florida under such compacts and agreements so as to best meet the dangers presented by this emergency.

B. Seek direct assistance and enter into agreements with any and all agencies of the federal government as may be needed to meet this emergency.

C. Direct all state, regional, and local governmental agencies, including law enforcement agencies, to identify personnel needed from those agencies to assist in meeting the response, recovery, and mitigation needs created by this emergency, and to place all such personnel under the direct command and coordination of the State Coordinating Officer to meet this emergency.

D. Direct the actions of any state agency as necessary to implement the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Disaster Recovery Framework.

E. Designate Deputy State Coordinating Officers and Deputy State Disaster Recovery Coordinators, as necessary.

F. Suspend the effect of any statute, rule, or order that would in any way prevent, hinder, or delay any mitigation, response or recovery action necessary to cope with this emergency.  In accordance with section 252.3611(1), Florida Statutes, any such order, declaration, or other action shall specify each statute or rule being amended or waived, if applicable, and the expiration date for the order or action.

G. Enter orders as may be needed to implement any of the foregoing powers; however, the requirements of sections 252.46 and 120.54(4), Florida Statutes, do not apply to any such orders issued by the State Coordinating Officer.  No such order shall remain in effect beyond the expiration of this Executive Order, including any extension thereof.

Section 3.        I order the Adjutant General to activate the Florida National Guard, as needed, to deal with this emergency.

Section 4.        I find that the special duties and responsibilities resting upon some state, regional, and local agencies and other governmental bodies in responding to this emergency may require them to suspend or waive certain statutes, rules, ordinances, and orders they administer.  Therefore, I issue the following authorizations:

A. Pursuant to section 252.36(6)(a), Florida Statutes, the Executive Office of the Governor may suspend all statutes and rules affecting budgeting to the extent necessary to provide budget authority for state agencies to cope with this emergency.  The requirements of sections 252.46 and 120.54(4), Florida Statutes, do not apply to any such suspension issued by the Executive Office of the Governor.  No such suspension shall remain in effect beyond the expiration of this Executive Order, including any extension thereof.

B. Each State agency may suspend the provisions of any regulatory statute prescribing the procedures for conduct of state business or the orders or rules of that agency, if strict compliance with the provisions of any such statute, order, or rule would in any way prevent, hinder, or delay necessary action in coping with the emergency.  In accordance with section 252.3611(1), Florida Statutes, any agency order, declaration, or other action suspending a statute or rule shall specify each statute or rule being amended or waived, if applicable, and the expiration date for the order or action.  The requirements of sections 252.46 and 120.54(4), Florida Statutes, shall not apply to any such suspension issued by a state agency.  No such suspension shall remain in effect beyond the expiration of this Executive Order, including any extension thereof.

C. All state agencies entering emergency orders, emergency rules, or other emergency actions in response to this emergency shall advise the State Coordinating Officer contemporaneously or as soon as practicable thereafter, and, pursuant to section 252.36(3)(b), Florida Statutes, shall file the order or declaration with the Division of Administrative Hearings within five days of issuance.

Section 5 .        I find that the demands placed upon the funds appropriated to the agencies of the State of Florida and to local agencies are unreasonably great and may be inadequate to pay the costs of coping with this disaster.  In accordance with section 252.37(2), Florida Statutes, I direct that sufficient funds be made available, as needed, by transferring and expending moneys from the Emergency Preparedness and Response Fund.

Section 6.        All actions taken by the Director of the Division of Emergency Management as the State Coordinating Officer with respect to this emergency before the issuance of this Executive Order are ratified, and he is directed to continue to execute the State of Florida Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan and other response, recovery, and mitigation plans necessary to cope with this emergency.

Section 7.        This Executive Order is effective immediately and shall expire sixty (60) days from this date unless extended

Florida also ranks #2 for international tourism. 

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that VISIT FLORIDA data shows that Florida has maintained its position as the #1 domestic tourist destination in the United States and remained a top destination for international visitors (ranking #2 in the country). In 2023, Florida’s market share of domestic tourists increased to 14.8%, up from 13.8% in 2022. This surge in market share represents the largest increase of any state, underscoring Florida’s appeal to travelers from across the country.

“Florida’s world class attractions, hospitality, and unwavering commitment to freedom have solidified our position as the top vacation destination,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “These figures show that Florida continues to be on the right path, as we have insisted on prioritizing public safety and common-sense leadership.”

While Florida’s domestic market share increased from 2022, other formerly popular destinations saw negative shifts in their shares. California experienced a notable decline, losing 1.2 percentage points, while New York saw a decrease of 0.8 percentage points. With these shifts, Florida now leads the U.S. by a substantial margin, boasting a 2.7 percentage point advantage over California, securing its position as the premier destination for American travelers.

“Florida’s continued ability to attract visitors speaks volumes about the state’s appeal, both domestically and internationally. From our pristine beaches and serene state parks to the thrills of our world-renowned theme parks and vibrant cities, Florida continues to captivate visitors with its unmatched experiences,” said Dana Young, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA. “We look forward to continuing to surpass all expectations and welcoming visitors to our beautiful state.”

Florida saw a noticeable uptick in overseas tourism in 2023. As the recovery of international travel continued, Florida garnered 25.2% of the overseas market share of travelers to the U.S.

In March 2024, overseas visitation to Florida surpassed pre-pandemic levels for the first time, with a 1.7% increase compared to March 2019. Notably, visitation from key markets such as the UK, Germany, and Mexico saw significant growth, with UK visitation up by 12%, German visitation up by 28%, and Mexican visitation up 61% compared to the same month in 2019.