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Bill

Bill

HB 1005

Deceptive and Unfair Trade Acts or Practices

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Rita Harris and 2 co-sponsors

Bill would strengthen Florida consumer protections against deceptive business practices, but died in committee without final consideration or passage.

Died in Industries & Professional Activities Subcommittee
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Bill Summary · HB 1005

Legislative bill overview

HB 1005 would modify Florida's deceptive and unfair trade practices laws to provide enhanced consumer protections and remedies. The bill was introduced by Representatives Robinson, Joseph, and Harris but died in committee without advancing through the legislative process.

Why is this important

Consumer protection laws directly affect how businesses can advertise and conduct commerce while determining what recourse everyday Floridians have when defrauded or misled. Strengthening these laws can reduce fraudulent practices but may also increase litigation costs that businesses pass to consumers or restrict competitive market practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition scope: Disagreement over what constitutes "deceptive" practices—broader definitions help consumers but create uncertainty for businesses about legal compliance
  • Remedy expansion: Enhanced penalties and damages could deter fraud but might incentivize frivolous lawsuits and increase costs for small businesses
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Questions about whether increased enforcement authority should go to the state attorney general, private citizens, or both, and how aggressively standards should be applied

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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