This bill amends Florida's lottery laws to enhance operational frameworks and security measures. Key updates include a revised definition of a "ball machine" and changes to the definitions of "major procurement" and "retailer." The Department of the Lottery's powers and duties are expanded, mandating a comprehensive security evaluation every two years and establishing new reporting schedules. Additionally, the bill specifies the information vendors must disclose when bidding for major procurements, ensuring thorough vetting of their financial responsibility and integrity. It also increases the maximum bond requirement for lottery retailers from twice to three times the average lottery ticket sales and allows sworn law enforcement officers to purchase and present lottery tickets under certain conditions.

The bill introduces stricter penalties for fraudulent activities related to lottery claims and the theft of lottery tickets. It replaces the phrase "is guilty of" with "commits" in defining a felony of the third degree, which includes knowingly falsifying or concealing material facts when presenting claims to lottery officials or retailers. Furthermore, it prohibits lottery retailers and their employees from using their positions to facilitate the theft of lottery tickets, classifying such actions as a felony of the third degree. The definitions of "patron" and "customer" are expanded to include law enforcement officers claiming prizes during official duties. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 530 Filed: 24.111, 24.116, 24.118