The bill amends section 539.001 of the Florida Statutes, specifically regarding pawnbroker transaction forms. It authorizes these forms to be completed in either digital or printed formats, allowing pawnbrokers the flexibility to use whichever format they prefer. The bill also revises recordkeeping requirements, stipulating that the forms must be approved by the agency and include specific information about the transaction, such as the description of the goods, the pledgor's details, and the terms of the pawn or purchase. Notably, the bill specifies that printed forms must be 8 1/2 inches by 11 inches and that digital forms must use a font size of at least 12 points.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of pawnbrokers in maintaining records and reporting transactions to law enforcement. It requires pawnbrokers to keep copies of completed transaction forms on their premises for at least one year and to deliver original or printed copies of these forms to law enforcement by the end of each business day. If a transaction form is lost or destroyed, a copy may be used as evidence in court. The bill also allows for electronic transfer of transactions if the appropriate law enforcement agency provides the necessary software and equipment. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 678 Filed: 539.001