House Bill 379 amends various sections of the Florida Statutes concerning securities regulations, focusing on definitions, exemptions from registration, and filing requirements for securities issuers. The bill introduces new definitions such as "Branch manager," "Corporation," "Director," "Limited liability company," and "Trust," while also revising existing definitions to clarify the circumstances under which securities transactions are exempt from registration, particularly in mergers and acquisitions. Additionally, it updates the registration application requirements, including fingerprint submissions for certain individuals, and specifies conditions for merger and acquisition brokers, as well as eligibility criteria for payments from the Securities Guaranty Fund.

The bill further modifies the registration and renewal processes for intermediaries, including a waiver of the $50 assessment fee for active duty military personnel and their families. It clarifies definitions related to control persons and business combinations, adjusts financial thresholds for companies involved in securities transactions, and establishes clearer eligibility criteria for claims against the Securities Guaranty Fund. The bill also updates liability provisions for agents involved in securities sales and revises the language regarding fee disbursement, ensuring compliance with current regulations. Overall, HB 379 aims to streamline the regulatory framework for securities transactions in Florida while enhancing investor protection and regulatory oversight.

Statutes affected:
H 379 Filed: 517.0612, 517.0614, 517.0616, 517.075, 517.211, 517.315