Senate Appropriations Committee Passes Broad-Based Tax Relief Package

Tallahassee–The Florida Senate Committee on Appropriations, chaired by Senator Tom Lee (R-Brandon) today passed House Bill 7099, as amended with the content of the Senate tax relief package. This legislation, combined with provisions of the 2016-17 General Appropriations Act, will deliver $400 million in broad-based tax relief for Florida families and business.

Senate President Andy Gardiner (R-Orlando) released the following statement:

“As Florida’s economy improves, property values across our state are rising, bringing increased equity to residential and commercial property owners across our state. Unfortunately, the practical impact of rising property values is higher property taxes. This year, the Legislature is taking important steps to mitigate that impact, by reducing local millage rates and using only state tax dollars to pay for a $478 million increase in education funding. This is a win-win scenario for our state. K-12 per student funding is at an all-time high, but state taxes dollars, rather than the property taxes of local homeowners and businesses, will cover the cost of that increase.

“This tax relief legislation also promotes private sector job creation and business expansion by permanently eliminating the sales tax on machinery and manufacturing equipment. This important savings can be a big difference for businesses looking to locate and expand in our state. Making this existing exemption permanent is a priority for Governor Scott, and we are pleased to support in his efforts to make Florida first in the nation in job creation.

“Another highlight of this important legislation is a Back-To-School Sales Tax Holiday that will provide savings for Florida families this summer as they prepare for the new school year.”

For more information on the Senate amendment to House Bill 7099, please visit www.FLSenate.gov.

Florida Welcomed a Record 105 Million Tourists in 2015

ORLANDO, Fla. – Today, Governor Rick Scott announced that Florida set another record in tourism by welcoming 105 million visitors in 2015, according to VISIT FLORIDA. This is the fifth consecutive record year for visitation to Florida, exceeding the previous high of 98.5 million in 2014 by 6.6 percent. The average number of direct travel-related jobs in 2015 was also a record high, with 1,199,200 Floridians employed in the tourism industry – up 53,400 or 4.7 percent over the same period last year. Governor Scott made the announcement at Walt Disney World in Orlando.

Governor Scott said, “I am proud to announce that Florida has surpassed our tourism goal and welcomed an historic 105 million visitors to our state in 2015. The number of travel-related jobs also reached a record high, with 1.2 million Floridians employed in the tourism industry. Tourism plays an important role in supporting our economy, and we will continue to make strategic investments in the tourism industry to keep Florida on track to becoming first for jobs. With five consecutive record years for tourism, it is time to set our goal even higher, and I look forward to welcoming 115 million visitors to the Sunshine State this year.”

VISIT FLORIDA estimates that a record 89.8 million domestic visitors traveled to Florida in 2015, reflecting an 8.0 percent increase over 2014. Estimates also show that 11.2 million overseas visitors and 4.0 million Canadians came to the Sunshine State last year. Total enplanements at 18 Florida airports during 2015 increased 8.2 percent over the previous year, representing a record 6.1 million more enplaned passengers than in 2014.

Will Seccombe, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, said, “Five years of record-setting visitation does not happen by accident. It’s the direct result of a global marketing strategy focused on maximizing the economic impact of Florida tourism. Today’s announcement shows tourism marketing works and we have Governor Scott and the Florida Legislature to thank for their unparalleled leadership and support that has the Sunshine State on track to become the No. 1 travel destination in the world.”

Tourism and recreation taxable sales for Florida increased every month year-over-year from January through November 2015 (last reported month), representing an 8.6 percent increase over the same period in 2014. For 2015, the average daily room rate (ADR) rose 5.9 percent and the number of rooms sold grew by 4.5 percent compared to 2014. Florida’s average occupancy rate for 2015 was 72.0 percent, an increase of 3.2 percent over 2014. This represents a record year for the statewide calendar year occupancy rate, exceeding the previous high of 69.8 percent in 2014.

John Tomlin, Chair of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors, said, “Achieving record visitation for five consecutive years, including reaching 105 million visitors in 2015, is a testament to the strong industry alignment between VISIT FLORIDA and our tourism Partners. Thanks to the visionary support of Governor Scott and the Florida legislature, together we have built a solid foundation that will enable us to reach our goal of generating $100 billion in visitor spending by 2020.”

For fourth quarter 2015, preliminary estimates show a record 25.2 million people visited the Sunshine State. This represents the largest fourth quarter visitation number Florida has ever seen and reflects an increase of 6.7 percent over the same period in 2014. VISIT FLORIDA also reports that an estimated 2.9 million overseas visitors and 671,000 Canadians traveled to Florida in the fourth quarter of 2015.

To view additional Florida visitor data, go the Research page on VISIT FLORIDA’s media website.

Bob Chapek, chairman, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, said, “As home of the most popular theme park in the world, we’re thrilled to contribute to the record number of visitors to Florida — and the jobs and economic opportunities that tourism helps to create.”
George Aguel, President and CEO of Visit Orlando, said, “Visit Orlando is delighted that Governor Scott and VISIT FLORIDA have chosen Orlando to share this milestone tourism accomplishment for our state. This news aligns nicely with Orlando’s record visitation last year of over 62 million visitors and a prediction of another record year for 2015, ensuring our unique position as the most visited destination in the nation.

DT Minich, President and CEO of Experience Kissimmee, said, “These record numbers are a direct result of the dedicated efforts of VISIT FLORIDA and fellow tourism leaders throughout the state. We’re proud to be a part of the engine attracting visitors to Florida and applaud Governor Scott’s unwavering support of the industry.”

Bill Talbert, Vice Chair of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors and President & CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, said, “Florida’s tourism continues to achieve records upon records thanks to the extraordinary efforts of VISIT FLORIDA and our tourism industry partners who work tirelessly to attract visitors to our beautiful diverse state. New and established tourism-related businesses are fueling growth, generating new jobs and paving the way for new milestones. We are fortunate to have a Governor and Legislature that support our industry and VISIT FLORIDA in reaching and surpassing goals for Florida’s tourism today and into the future.”

Andrew Hertz, Immediate Past Chair of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors and President & General Manager of Miami Seaquarium, said, “We know that Florida is the best vacation destination in the world, but it takes an incredible team effort to let the world know all we have to offer. VISIT FLORIDA has been the perfect model of how a public-private partnership works on behalf of the tourism industry and the people of the State of Florida. Five years of record year-over-year growth shows that the Governor and the Legislature are wise to continue to invest in Florida’s future by their funding of VISIT FLORIDA.”

Carol Dover, Chair of the VISIT FLORIDA Public Affairs Committee and President & CEO of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, said, “The success seen here in the Sunshine State is off the charts! We are very proud that 105 million visitors took the opportunity to experience our incredible restaurants, hotels and attractions that offer world-class service, provided by 1.2 million dedicated Floridians. We are grateful to Governor Scott and Florida lawmakers for recognizing the industry’s achievements and ensuring that our state’s economy will continue to thrive. With their support, VISIT FLORIDA’s marketing strategies are continuing to work wonders and we look forward to a sixth consecutive year of record-breaking numbers.”

Bill Lupfer, Member of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors and President & CEO of the Florida Attractions Association, said, “As a vital part of Florida’s tourism industry, Florida attractions celebrate five consecutive years of record breaking visitation. Florida’s world-renowned attractions and diverse destinations continue to set the industry standard, and we applaud our partners and the support of Governor Rick Scott and the Florida Legislature.”

Mark Wilson, President & CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, said, “Congratulations to VISIT FLORIDA and Florida’s tourism industry for achieving a historic 105 million visitors to Florida in 2015. When visitors travel to Florida, they learn about our top ten school rankings, low crime rate, zero personal income tax, business-friendly climate and family-friendly brand, and often return to open a business and create jobs for Floridians. The Florida Chamber is proud to celebrate this milestone, and looks forward to making Florida even more competitive in the future.”

Malinda Horton, Member of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors and Executive Director of the Florida Association of Museums, said, “The Florida tourism industry continues to drive the positive statewide economic outlook with the leadership of Governor Scott and the Florida Legislature’s support of VISIT FLORIDA, the public-private partnership for tourism marketing. This fifth consecutive year of record breaking tourism growth could only have been achieved with high-quality visitor valued offerings statewide. The diverse range of world-class activities from sporting events to museums, a happening culinary scene, and great Florida weather have been harmoniously combined into a win-win vacation for travelers and Florida residents who benefit from robust job growth, a booming tourism expansion construction effort, and increased sales tax revenues that fuel our economy.”

Samantha Padgett, Member of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors and Vice President & General Counsel for the Florida Retail Federation, said, “We want to applaud the tremendous coordinated efforts of Governor Scott, our legislative leaders and VISIT FLORIDA in attracting more than 105 million tourists to our state. Record tourism means great news for Florida’s 270,000 retailers who depend on Sunshine State travelers to purchase gifts and memories from their visit.”

Dan Rowe, Member of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors and President & CEO of Visit Panama City Beach, said, “We have had a run of record-breaking years in terms of visitation, and 2015 was no exception. VISIT FLORIDA has been a great partner as Panama City Beach continues to grow, becoming a year-round destination and more than just a beautiful beach. As we strive to offer guests additional reasons to spend their vacation days with us, Panama City Beach has seen our fall visitation nearly double in just 5 years, and in 2015 tourism brought more than $1.4 billion in direct spending. For Panama City Beach, and for the entire state of Florida, tourism is a key economic driver that Governor Scott and leaders in the Florida Legislature have done a terrific job supporting.”

Virginia Haley, Member of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors and President of Visit Sarasota County, said, “VISIT FLORIDA’s leadership has given our industry the marketing platforms that have driven this success. Here at Visit Sarasota County, we can see the results of our partnership with VISIT FLORIDA in our tourism records.”

Joe Lopano, CEO of the Tampa International Airport, said “This is great news! Governor Scott set a goal of serving 100 million visitors in 2015 and thanks to VISIT FLORIDA’s outstanding marketing programs, we surpassed that goal. Every part of the state benefits from that commitment to growing our tourism economy. At Tampa International Airport, we’re on pace to serve a record number of passengers in 2016, which means more people enjoying our beaches, great restaurants, museums and attractions. That wouldn’t be possible without the support of all of our partners in Tallahassee.”

*Preliminary estimates are issued 45 days after the end of each calendar quarter. Final estimates are released when final data are received for all estimates in the report.

$1.4 Million in Scholarships Awarded to Florida High School Students Participating in ProStart Culinary Team Competition

(Orlando, Fla.) The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association Educational Foundation (FRLAEF) announced the winners of the 16th Annual ProStart Culinary Team Competition which was held Friday, February 5 and Saturday, February 6, 2016 at the Rosen Plaza Hotel in Orlando.

A total of 49 schools participated in the competition with 13 schools winning top awards throughout the day’s events. More than $1.4 million in scholarships was distributed to the winning schools. All winners and participants are a part of Florida’s ProStart program which is a career technical education program where high school students learn from an industry-derived curriculum that teaches culinary techniques and restaurant management skills. More than 20,000 students from across the state are enrolled in the program. The four main event competitions included: the Cracker Barrel Management Competition, the Johnson & Wales University Culinary Competition, the Keiser University Edible Centerpiece Competition, and the Coca-Cola Company Waiters Relay Competition.

Gainesville’s Eastside High School won first place in the overall competition. East Ridge High School in Clermont took home second place in the overall competition, with J.P. Taravella High School in Coral Springs placing third. For photos of the event, please click here.

“These students absolutely represent the future of Florida’s hospitality industry and we are proud to help support their education by awarding more than $1 million in scholarships. We are passionate about investing in the lives of these student all-stars and are thrilled we get to watch them craft their incredible talents and build successful careers,” said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association.

Overall Competition Winners

First Place	Eastside High School	Instructor: Billie DeNunzio
Second Place	East Ridge High School	Instructors: Lucressie McGriff and Ken Pitts
Third Place	J.P. Taravella High School	Instructor: Scott Goodman
Fourth Place	Leto High School	Instructor: Debra Hladky
Fifth Place	Seabreeze High School	Instructor: Samantha Crouch

Johnson & Wales University Culinary Competition Winners
Participating teams demonstrated their creative abilities during the competition through the preparation of a meal consisting of: starter (such as soup, salad or appetizer), protein (such as meat, fish or fowl), starch, vegetable, and dessert.

First Place	Leto High School	Instructor: Debra Hladky
Second Place	Eastside High School	Instructor: Billie DeNunzio and Pam Bedford
Third Place	East Ridge High School	Instructors: Lucressie McGriff and Ken Pitts
Fourth Place	J.P. Taravella High School	Instructor: Scott Goodman
Fifth Place	Steinbrenner High School	Instructors: Philip Meola and David Walesheck

Cracker Barrel Management Competition Winners
Participating teams demonstrated their knowledge of the restaurant and foodservice industry by developing a business proposal for a new restaurant concept. The business proposal consisted of a defined restaurant concept, supporting menu, and supporting marketing plan. Teams prepared a comprehensive written proposal, verbal presentation and visual display.

First Place	Eastside High School	Instructor: Billie DeNunzio and Pam Bedford
Second Place	Deland High School	Instructor: Renee Scarborough
Third Place	East Ridge High School	Instructors: Lucressie McGriff and Ken Pitts
Fourth Place	Mainland High School	Instructors: Jason Kester and Troy Logan
Fifth Place	Northeast High School	Instructors: John Beck and Curtis Serata

Keiser University Edible Centerpiece Competition Winners
Participating teams demonstrated their creative ability during the competition through the preparation of an edible centerpiece consisting of fruits and vegetables. Contestants explained nutritional information, product availability, and preparation techniques.

First Place	Tarpon Springs High School	Instructor: Cathleen Ryan, Vincenzo Pesce and Tony DeVincenzo
Second Place	Eastside High School	Instructor: Billie DeNunzio and Pam Bedford
Third Place	Mainland High School	Instructors: Jason Kester and Troy Logan
Fourth Place	Seabreeze High School	Instructor: Samantha Crouch
Fifth Place	Northeast High School	Instructor: John Beck and Curtis Serata

Coca-Cola Company Waiters Relay Competition Winners
Participating teams demonstrated their ability to duplicate a table setting while racing against the clock.

First Place	J.P. Taravella High School	Instructor: Scott Goodman
Second Place	Seabreeze High School	Instructor: Samantha Crouch
Third Place	East Ridge High School	Instructors: Lucressie McGriff and Ken Pitts
Fourth Place	Bartow High School	Instructor: Rosalind Chan
Fifth Place	Stoneman Douglas High School	Instructor: Ashley Kurth

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About FRLA Educational Foundation (FRLAEF)
The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association created the Educational Foundation in 1994. FRLAEF administers and executes two high school curriculums ‐ the National Restaurants Association’s (NRA) ProStart and the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s (AH&LA) Lodging Management Program – in more than 240 Florida high schools and provides resources to nearly 25,000 students in these culinary arts and hospitality management programs. Scholarships, Teacher Training Institutes, Industry Certifications, Equipment Mini‐Grants and Industry Internships are just a few of the products and services the FRLAEF provides to these classrooms. For more information, please go to http://frla.org/educational-foundation/.

About the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association
FRLA is Florida’s premier non-profit hospitality industry trade association. Our mission is to ‘Protect, Educate and Promote’ Florida’s $82 billion hospitality industry which represents 23% of Florida’s economy and more than 1.1 million employees – making it the state’s number one industry. We offer regulatory compliance and food safety training needs (RCS and SafeStaff®); industry developed career-building high school programs (FRLAEF); sponsor the only event in Florida exclusively serving the restaurant and foodservice industry (FR&L Show, September 27-29, 2016 in Orlando); and we safeguard the needs of the hospitality industry by providing legislative advocacy. We represent and serve more than 10,000 independent and household name members, suppliers, and theme parks. For more information, go to www.FRLA.org and find us on Twitter @FRLAnews, Facebook and YouTube.

To Prepare for Spring Break, Panama City Beach Businesses and Employees Receive FREE Responsible Vendor Training

(Panama City Beach, FL) – Regulatory Compliance Services (RCS), a subsidiary of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is proud to present its 2016 Spring Break Hospitality Workshop to promote a safe and successful spring break season. This free responsible vendor training session will bring together businesses, their employees and Florida Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco agents to promote alcohol sales/service best practices, raise staff awareness and provide valuable resources to assist businesses during the busy season. The event will be held Monday, February 15, 2016 from 3:00-4:30 PM at the Boardwalk Beach Resort in Panama City Beach.

“In preparation for Spring Break, we want to give local businesses the necessary tools and tips that cultivate a safe and enjoyable environment. We are proud to present this opportunity, free of charge, to help businesses be responsible vendors. As Florida’s premier provider of responsible alcohol vendor training, we are passionate about risk management and are excited to help serve the Panama City Beach community,” said FRLA Vice President of Education and Training, Geoff Luebkemann.

Responsible vendor training is a program offered to any entity with an alcoholic beverage license. Instructors present state-mandated content that encourages best management practices and patron safety. Participants learn about alcohol laws, avoiding serving underage patrons, and preventing over-serving patrons. The training contributes to fewer underage alcohol sales, reduced DUIs, and increased professionalism and knowledge among those selling and serving alcohol to patrons. Alcohol beverage licensees who successfully qualify and remain responsible vendors enjoy certain protections under the law for their license, and may reduce their risk liability exposure and costs.

During this event, the training will be presented by RCS in coordination with Florida’s Division of Alcohol Beverages and Tobacco.

The media is invited to attend and if planning to be present will need to contact FRLA Communications Director Elizabeth Ray at 850.224.2250 x255 or via email at [email protected].

WHAT:
2016 Spring Break Hospitality Workshop
Includes FRLA’s RCS FREE Responsible Vendor Training

WHEN:
Monday, February 15, 2016
3:00-4:30 PM

WHERE:
Boardwalk Beach Resort
9450 South Thomas Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32408

Businesses looking to participate in the event should contact RCS Northwest Regional Manager, Caitie Mook at 850-933-3762 or [email protected]. For more information about RCS please visit http://www.regcomplianceusa.com/.

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FRLA Partners With Snagajob to Bolster Opportunities for Hourly Job Seekers and Employers

(Tallahassee, Fla.) The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is proud to partner with Snagajob to provide industry leading hiring and talent management solutions to FRLA members.

“Our industry is always on the search for new talent. In fact, by 2019, Florida is projected to have 1.5 million people directly employed in travel and tourism. That’s one of the many reasons we decided to partner with Snagajob and we are thrilled about the opportunities we will create together,” said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association.

“Snagajob couldn’t be more excited to launch our partnership with the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association,” said Joe Gabriel, Business Development Manager at Snagajob. “FRLA has been providing top of class benefits for members for years and we are so excited to be a part of the FRLA family. With thousands of Florida employers struggling to find quality hourly employees, there is a tremendous need to connect hourly workers with FRLA members. Our innovative products and mobile app provide a great opportunity for FRLA members to attract hourly workers as well as benefit from our paperless tracking and onboarding solutions.”

Snagajob, America’s #1 spot for hourly work, is the only company solely committed to providing recruitment and hiring solutions to the hourly industry. With more than 65 million registered job seekers and a leading hourly-focused talent management system, Snagajob has been serving hourly workers and those who employ them since 2000. With offices in Richmond, VA, and the Washington, D.C., metro, Snagajob has been named to Fortune Magazine’s Great Place to Work® list for each of the past eight years.

Members of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association can take advantage of exclusive member pricing, including 10% off Snagajob’s full suite of solutions, which includes talent sourcing, hiring manager, and paperless onboarding. To schedule a demo or for more information on special benefits for FRLA members, please visit www.snagajob.com/FRLA.

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Tourism Leaders to Gather in Tallahassee for 2016 Florida Tourism Day on Wednesday, Jan. 20

(Tallahassee, Fla.) –The Partnership for Florida’s Tourism is proud to present Florida Tourism Day on Wednesday, January 20, 2016 in Tallahassee. Tourism and hospitality leaders from across the state will convene for a daylong event designed to educate the legislature, media and Floridians about the importance of Florida’s tourism industry. Eleven statewide organizations are participating in the effort and will be hosting a downtown celebration that evening.

Media interested in attending either the morning CEO Briefings and/or the Florida Tourism Day Street Party are asked to contact Christina Johnson at 850.391.5040 or via email at [email protected].

WHAT:

Florida Tourism Day

CEO Briefings and Guest Speakers, Legislative Visits, and Downtown Street Party

WHEN:

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

CEO Briefings and Guest Speakers from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Legislative Visits at the Capitol from 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Street Party from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

WHERE:

CEO Briefings and Guest Speakers

Donald L. Tucker Civic Center Exhibit Hall

505 West Pensacola Street

Tallahassee, FL 32301

Street Party, Downtown Tallahassee

Corner of Adams Street and College Avenue

GUEST SPEAKERS*:

Attorney General Pam Bondi

Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater

Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam

Department of Business and Professional Regulations Secretary Ken Lawson

*List as of 01.14.16

PARTICIPANTS:

Film Florida

Florida Association of Destination Marketing Organizations

Florida Association of Museums

Florida Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds

Florida Attractions Association

Florida Cattlemen’s Association

Florida Department of Agriculture / Fresh from Florida

Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association

Florida Sports Foundation

Florida Vacation Rental Managers Association

VISIT FLORIDA

About the Partnership for Florida’s Tourism

The Partnership for Florida’s Tourism began in 2006 as a grassroots coalition designed to raise awareness of the importance of tourism and increase public funding of tourism marketing. Key stakeholders in the tourism industry have joined in this effort. The Partnership consists of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, Florida Attractions Association, Florida Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds, Florida Association of Destination Marketing Organizations and VISIT FLORIDA. For additional information, please go to TourismWorksforFlorida.org.

Gov. Rick Scott: More Than One Million New Jobs in Florida

NAPLES, Fla. — Governor Rick Scott announced today that Florida’s private sector has created more than 1 million jobs since December 2010. In November, the private sector added 35,600 jobs across Florida, resulting in 1,011,800 new private sector jobs created in the last five years. Florida’s unemployment rate also dropped to 5.0 percent, the lowest in seven years. Florida’s annual private sector job growth rate, now at 3.6 percent, has exceeded that of the nation since April 2012.

Governor Rick Scott said, “Today, I am proud to announce that Florida’s hardworking businesses have created MORE THAN 1 MILLION JOBS across Florida in just five years. Thanks to our focus on cutting taxes and making it easier for job creators to succeed, our businesses are creating jobs faster than we ever expected. Even though today’s news is great, we have to continue to diversify our economy by cutting $1 billion in taxes and creating the Florida Enterprise Fund so Florida can be FIRST for jobs.”

Governor Scott made the announcement at Azimuth Technologies, a manufacturer founded in Naples. Azimuth has created more than 100 jobs for local families, including 30 new jobs in the past eight months. The company has also saved more than $200,000 from the tax cut on manufacturing equipment, which has allowed them to invest more in growing their businesses and hiring new employees.

Len Zaiser, CEO of Azimuth Technology, said “We are proud to celebrate Azimuth Technology’s continued success in Florida with Governor Scott today. Our company has directly benefitted from the Governor’s commitment to cutting taxes, allowing us to make more investments in purchasing new manufacturing equipment and hiring new team members. We look forward to seeing these tax cuts continue so Azimuth Technology can keep expanding and providing more opportunities in our community.”

The November 2015 unemployment rate is the lowest since January 2008. Florida’s unemployment rate has declined by 5.7 percentage points since December 2010. Florida’s unemployment rate is down by a 0.7 percentage point over the year, and down by a 0.1 percentage point over the month.

Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Executive Director Jesse Panuccio said, “In November, Florida’s economy hit two milestones: 1 million private-sector jobs in five years and the highest job demand in our history. This incredible economic recovery has happened because of the leadership of Gov. Scott, who from day one has supported the policies that have helped families get good jobs – tax cuts, a sensible regulatory climate, and major investments in education and infrastructure. If we stay the course, Florida will have the strongest economy in the nation.”

Other positive economic indicators include:

Florida’s private sector job growth month-to-month has been positive for 49 consecutive months.
Private sector industries gaining the most jobs over the month in November were construction with 10,600 new jobs; trade, transportation, and utilities with 6,500 new jobs; and professional and business services with 6,400 new jobs.
Florida job postings showed 299,530 openings in November 2015.
Statewide, closed sales for single-family homes in October rose 1.2 percent over-the-year.

In November, Florida’s 24 regional workforce boards reported 37,095 Floridians, including 1,827 veterans, were placed in jobs.

To view the November 2015 employment data visit www.floridajobs.org/labor-market-information/labor-market-information-press-releases/monthly-press-releases.

New Video Highlights Importance of Cutting Florida’s Burdensome and Costly Business Rent Tax

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (Dec. 17, 2015) – A new video highlighting Florida’s burdensome and costly business rent tax was released today as part of a statewide campaign to encourage lawmakers to eliminate– over six years –this Florida-only tax starting with one percent during the 2016 Legislative Session.

Coalescing around a common goal of making Florida’s business climate more competitive, small businesses, job creators and business groups, known as the Business Rent Tax Coalition, are collectively advocating for a one percent business rent tax cut.

Click the image above, or watch the video here: cutmybizrent.tax

“For Florida to be more competitive and inviting to business, we must cut the business rent tax,” said Carrie O’Rourke, Florida Realtors® vice president of public policy. “Adding sales tax to rent can mean the difference in whether a small business is able to grow and expand – or even if they can stay in business at times. We urge lawmakers to take action this year to cut the business rent tax by one percent, which will provide broad-based tax relief for businesses across Florida, increase job opportunities and encourage economic growth.”

Florida is currently the only state in the nation that charges a business rent tax. That means in Florida, businesses pay a six percent tax on the space they lease, including added costs to that lease, such as property taxes, maintenance and the cost of insurance.

Florida’s business rent tax costs Florida businesses $1.7 billion every single year. A one percent reduction this year, as advocated by the Business Rent Tax Coalition, would keep $287 million in the hands of Florida’s job creators, allowing employers to hire additional employees, increase employee benefits and reinvest back into their businesses.

The Business Rent Tax Coalition currently includes 31 statewide, regional, and local organizations, including:

Associated Builders and Contractors of Florida
Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) of Florida
Florida Chamber of Commerce
Florida Ports Council
Florida Realtors
Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association
International Council of Shopping Centers
Manufacturers Association of Florida
NAIOP of Florida
Bay County Chamber of Commerce
Bonita Springs Chamber of Commerce
Citrus County Chamber of Commerce
Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce
Destin Area Chamber of Commerce
Flagler County Chamber of Commerce
Greater Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce
Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce
Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce
JAX Chamber
Lake Wales Area Chamber of Commerce
Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce
Lauderhill Regional Chamber of Commerce
Manatee Chamber of Commerce
North Port Area Chamber of Commerce
Northern Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce
Ocala-Marion County Chamber and Economic Partnership
Orlando,
Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce
Upper Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce
Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce
West Orange Chamber of Commerce

Each member of the Business Rent Tax Coalition is actively engaging their grassroots member network and pooling resources to create awareness of this costly tax and engaging lawmaker support to cut – and eventually phase out – the Business Rent Tax.

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING:

Florida Chamber of Commerce: “With two out of three jobs being created by small businesses, reducing the business rent tax will help small businesses grow, benefit Florida’s families and make Florida more competitive,” said Mark Wilson, President and CEO of the Florida Chamber.

Florida Ports Council: “Florida is working to be more competitive at all levels, including reducing the cost of doing business for our companies,” said Doug Wheeler, president and CEO of the Florida Ports Council. “We appreciate the efforts of Governor Scott and the Florida Chamber to eliminate the burdensome business rent tax and increase our ability to attract businesses to Florida.”

Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association: “Burdening our businesses with an unnecessary rent tax cuts directly into state revenues generated by the tourism industry, which represents the state’s number one job creator,” said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. “By cutting the business rent tax, lawmakers will help ensure restaurants, hotels and attractions can continue to offer employment opportunities for Florida families and the dollars saved by our businesses can be put back in the pockets of taxpayers.”

Associated Builders and Contractors of Florida: “Reducing the sales tax on commercial leases will make business more competitive,” said Gary Stout, Chairman of the Board of Associated Builders and Contractors of Florida.

BOMA of Florida: “A vibrant commercial real estate industry housing expanding small businesses is a key contributor to economic and employment opportunities for individuals, and their families. The Business Rent Tax cut will play a prominent role in the economic well-being of our industry and therefore our communities, positively impacting the quality of life that has become synonymous with the State of Florida,” said Lacey Willard, President of BOMA Florida, and Director with CBRE, Inc.

International Council of Shopping Centers: “The business rent tax in our state unfairly disadvantages our business owners, whether they are small retail shops or new businesses requiring office space. There is no other state in the country that imposes this tax and if there is a choice for where to locate based on cost, Florida is immediately at a disadvantage. This tax inhibits businesses from expanding given the added costs and directly impacts employment and our ability to grow jobs in our state,” said Ivy Greaner, Florida Government Relations Chair, ICSC and Executive Vice President, Lennar Commercial.

Manufacturers Association of Florida: “Manufacturers in Florida are growing. When they grow they need more space. Competing with others for land space to build and along with facing months and years of planning and permits forces them to turn to leasing and renting existing space for their expanding operations. When they realize Florida is the only state that charges sales tax on commercial rents and leases, they think twice about expanding here. Reducing the tax will keep more of them in Florida and attract others that provide those well-paying jobs for Florida’s families,” said Nancy Stephens Executive Director, Manufacturers Association of Florida.

NAIOP of Florida, Commercial Real Estate Development Association: “Elimination of just one percent of the business rent tax can put $287 million of revenue back into Florida’s economy for job creation and expansion or to help with the ever rising cost of such things as healthcare for employees.” Nelson Bradshaw, President 2016 NAIOP of Florida, Commercial Real Estate Development Association.

Orlando, Inc.: “Businesses throughout Central Florida are increasingly concerned about the business rent tax, which is why Orlando, Inc. is urging the Florida Legislature to take action to reduce this tax.” Jose Fajardo, Executive Vice President, Orlando, Inc.

Learn more about the Business Rent Tax Coalition by visiting cutmybizrent.tax.

Small Business Saturday Spending Reaches $16.2 billion in 2015, a 14% increase from 2014

NEW YORK, November 30, 2015 — This year, more shoppers reported visiting their local independent businesses on Small Business Saturday than ever before, according to results from the Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey, released today by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) and American Express. More than 95 million consumers shopped at small businesses on Small Business Saturday, marking an eight percent increase from 2014.

This year Small Business Saturday saw record levels of support from communities and local organizations. More than 4,100 Neighborhood Champions around the country rallied local businesses and created events in their communities for Small Business Saturday — an increase of 48 percent over last year. And more than 425 organizations joined the Small Business Saturday Coalition – an increase of 11 percent over last year.

According to the Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey, total spending among U.S. consumers who were aware of Small Business Saturday reached $16.2 billion at independent retailers and restaurants on the day, an increase of 14 percent from $14.3 billion in 2014. Among those who shopped on Small Business Saturday, 31 percent attended a community event on the day and 81 percent encouraged family and friends to support their local small businesses.

Additionally, consumers and small businesses helped rally support for Small Business Saturday and their favorite small businesses on social media channels. In the month of November, there were 85 million social media engagements1 in support of Small Business Saturday.

“It’s very encouraging to see small businesses participate every year and more shoppers giving local entrepreneurs a chance to compete for their business,” said NFIB President and CEO Dan Danner. “Americans are returning to Main Street for the things they need and ultimately that’s a very healthy economic trend.”

“Small Business Saturday is an increasingly important economic engine for independent businesses,” said Janey Whiteside, senior vice president and general manager of American Express OPEN. “These impressive numbers demonstrate the value that Small Business Saturday brings to local businesses, and American Express is proud to support the Shop Small Movement. We encourage shoppers to support their local businesses not only on Small Business Saturday, but all year long.”

Elected Officials across the U.S. Show Their Support

President Obama shopped at a local bookstore and dined at a local popsicle shop on Small Business Saturday in Washington, D.C.
Elected officials in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. – including President Obama and many senior government officials – championed Small Business Saturday.
Over 200 Federal officials and agencies showed support for Small Business Saturday through posts on Facebook and Twitter.
551 city proclamations in support of Small Business Saturday were issued by mayors and other elected officials in all 50 states and Washington D.C.
The U.S. Senate unanimously passed a resolution designating November 28th, 2015 as Small Business Saturday.
14 Public Service Announcements encouraging the public to “Shop Small” were recorded by government officials across the nation.

Communities and Supporters Contribute To Big Success in Year Six

In addition to the growth of the Neighborhood Champion Program and the Small Business Saturday Coalition, corporations, consumers and businesses across the country rallied their communities around Small Business Saturday. For example:

In a substantial show of corporate support, nearly 100 larger companies signed up to become Official Supporters of the day and helped promote Small Business Saturday. Corporate supporters including Ace Hardware, AT&T, Etsy, Eventbrite, Hertz, Sam’s Club, Square, and Starwood Hotels & Resorts helped rally their combined millions of small business customers and consumers to take part in Small Business Saturday. Their efforts ranged from social media posts and webinars to in-store and employee events.
More than 685,000 free online tools and materials were accessed by small business owners on ShopSmall.com to help get the word out about Small Business Saturday.
In the month of November more than 241,000 posts combined were posted on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter using Small Business Saturday and Shop Small related hashtags, more than 100,000 of which were posted on November 28th alone.2 Posts included consumers showing their love for their favorite small businesses, business owners raising awareness for promotions and activities taking place on Small Business Saturday, as well as government officials and celebrities showing their support for the day and their favorite small businesses.

About the Survey

The Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey was conducted among a nationally representative sample of 2,363 males and females 18 years of age or older. The sample was collected using an email invitation and an online survey. The study was conducted anonymously by independent marketing performance specialist Ebiquity on November 29, 2015. The survey has an overall margin of error of +/- 2.0%, at the 95% level of confidence.

About Small Business Saturday

November 28th marks the sixth annual Small Business Saturday, a day dedicated to supporting the local businesses that can help create jobs, boost the economy and preserve neighborhoods around the country. Small Business Saturday was created by American Express in 2010 in response to small business owners’ most pressing need: more customers.

About NFIB

NFIB is the nation’s leading small business association, with offices in Washington, D.C., and all 50 states. Founded in 1943 as a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, NFIB gives small and independent business owners a voice in shaping the public policy issues that affect their business. NFIB’s powerful network of grassroots activists sends their views directly to state and federal lawmakers through our unique member-only ballot, thus playing a critical role in supporting America’s free enterprise system. NFIB’s mission is to promote and protect the right of our members to own, operate and grow their businesses. More information about NFIB is available online at www.NFIB.com/newsroom.

1 Social media engagements are defined as any proactive action taken by a social media user related to the Small Business Saturday or Shop Small related social media content and conversations on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube or Snapchat, including but not limited to, likes, shares, comments, video views, etc.

2 This includes the hashtags #ShopSmall, #SmallBizSat, #SmallBusinessSaturday, #ShopSmallBusinessSaturday, #ShopSmallForAll, and #ShopSmallSaturday.

Orlando Sentinel: State Can’t Ban Credit-Card Surcharges, Court Rules

TALLAHASSEE — Pointing to the First Amendment, a federal appeals court has struck down a Florida law that bars businesses from imposing a surcharge on customers who pay with credit cards.

The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, in a 2-1 decision Wednesday, sided with four small businesses that faced potential prosecution for telling customers they would face additional costs for using credit cards.