The bill introduces a new section, 501.2043, to the Florida Statutes, which outlines specific unfair or deceptive acts or practices that can occur during transactions for the sale or lease of goods or services to consumers. Effective January 1, 2026, it establishes that individuals or entities engaging in such transactions may be found in violation of this law if they intentionally commit certain actions. These actions include advertising prices without mandatory fees, misrepresenting the source or approval of goods, failing to disclose additional taxes and fees, making false statements about price reductions, misrepresenting consumer rights, and misleading consumers about potential rebates or discounts.
The enforcement of these provisions will be governed by existing statutes, specifically sections 501.206 to 501.2075. The bill aims to enhance consumer protection by holding advertisers accountable for deceptive practices, thereby promoting transparency and fairness in commercial transactions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.