Florida lawmakers are attempting to stimulate the economy by eliminating local licensing requirements and oversight bureaus which may hamper entrepreneurs. Meanwhile opponents have found an unlikely ally in the form of The Walt Disney Company.
The Orlando Sentinel reports that the Florida House of Representatives is looking at reducing state timeshare oversight. Among the cuts would be government regulators who are charged with ensuring that advertising literature and timershare offering documents are not misleading to potential buyers.
Disney has gone on record to oppose the changes. Lobbyist Brian Bibeau is quoted as saying: "the division [of condominiums, time shares and mobile homes] was put together to force the bad actors out of these areas of activity," Bibeau said. "We think it'd be a terrible mistake for you all to deregulate those areas of the division. We strongly oppose it."
Other changes under consideration include eliminating licensing requirements for Florida-based travel agents and provisions which require travel agencies to post a $50,000 surety bond designed to protect customers from fraudulent or bankrupt agents.
Lawmakers believe that eliminating these barriers will encourage the growth of small businesses at a time when the state unemployment rates hovers around 12%.
Additional Details: Orlando Sentinel
