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HB 1007

Fraudulent Use of Gift Cards

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Doug Bankson and 7 co-sponsors

Florida establishes criminal penalties for knowingly using or presenting fraudulently obtained gift cards, providing prosecutors clearer legal authority to prosecute gift card fraud schemes.

Laid on Table, companion bill(s) passed, see CS/SB 1198 (Ch. 2025-151)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1007

Legislative bill overview

HB 1007 addresses the fraudulent use of gift cards in Florida by establishing criminal penalties for individuals who knowingly use, present, or attempt to use gift cards obtained through fraud or theft. The bill creates a mechanism to prosecute gift card fraud as a distinct offense, clarifying legal liability for those who commit or participate in such schemes.

Why is this important

Gift card fraud has become increasingly common as retailers struggle to prevent unauthorized use of stolen or fraudulently obtained cards. This legislation provides law enforcement and prosecutors with clearer legal tools to combat a growing financial crime that affects both consumers and retailers, while also establishing uniformity in how Florida courts handle such cases.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional clarity: Questions about what constitutes "knowledge" of fraudulent origin and how prosecutors prove intent without explicit acknowledgment from the defendant
  • Penalties and proportionality: Debate over whether criminal penalties are appropriately scaled relative to the dollar amount of fraud, particularly for low-value gift card misuse
  • Burden on retailers: Concerns about whether retailers bear responsibility for implementing fraud-detection systems or if liability rests solely with individuals misusing cards

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

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