The bill amends Section 559.72 of the Florida Statutes, which outlines prohibited practices for individuals attempting to collect consumer debt. The key change is the clarification regarding communication methods, specifically allowing e-mail communication outside the previously restricted hours of 9:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m., as long as it complies with the section's other provisions. The language has been updated to replace "no person shall" with "a person may not," and it explicitly states that the restrictions on communication do not apply to e-mail, recognizing the less invasive nature of this form of contact compared to telephone calls.

Additionally, the bill reenacts several related statutes to ensure they incorporate the amendments made to Section 559.72. These include provisions related to enforcement actions against out-of-state debt collectors, consumer complaints, civil remedies, and definitions relevant to debt collection practices. The overall intent of the bill is to modernize and clarify the regulations surrounding debt collection, particularly in light of evolving communication methods. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law.

Statutes affected:
S 232 Filed: 559.72
S 232 c1: 559.72
S 232 c2: 559.72