LEADERSHIP REPORTS
Message from Carol Dover Florida’s 2021 legislative session was a huge success for Florida’s hospitality industry. We scored a big win with COVID-19 liability protections for businesses following safe protocols, alcohol-togo was passed and signed into law to permanently allow for this critical lifeline for restaurants, and we helped secure important funding for VISIT FLORIDA. We also worked hard to protect our tourist development and convention development tax revenues, and approved uses were not expanded for flood mitigation usage. Throughout session, we collaborated with our members, legislative leadership and the Governor’s office to ensure your collective voices were heard and represented. I’m so proud of all that we achieved this year to protect our industry and help us in our continued recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Alcohol-to-go and COVID liability protections were like a light at the end of the very dark tunnel that was 2020. Florida, like many other states, has very restrictive alcohol laws and regulations, and the Governor’s relaxing of those regulations to allow for alcohol delivery and takeout during the pandemic has been a critical revenue stream for many establishments. It was the difference between staying alive or closing permanently. We look forward to continuing to provide guidance and
best practices for alcohol-to-go as we move forward to brighter days for our industry. In addition, during regular Session and Special Session, we advocated for the historic new gaming compact between our state and the Seminole Tribe of Florida. The Legislature did approve the compact, and it was signed by the Governor. It is a win-win-win for the Tribe, our great state and our industry as thousands of hospitality jobs will be created. Workforce is also top of mind. The labor shortage we are experiencing in Florida is unprecedented, and FRLA is striving to provide solutions to assist in recruitment and retention for our hospitality jobs. One thing we have put together for the industry is GreatFloridaJob.com, an easy to use website for job seekers and employers. Be sure to visit the site to post your jobs. As summer begins, it is important to remain vigilant with emergency preparedness. Obviously, Florida is no stranger to disaster events, so it’s important not to take hurricane readiness for granted. Make sure you and your business stay informed and have a plan throughout hurricane season. FRLA actively participates on Florida’s State Emergency Response Team (SERT) during emergency events as members of the Emergency Support Function 18, whose function is to coordinate local, state and federal
agency actions that will provide immediate and short-term assistance for the needs of business, industry and economic stabilization. Follow our hurricane resources page here and stay up to date. We hope that you continue to have a safe and successful season for your business as we continue to rebuild our great industry!
Carol B. Dover Carol B. Dover FRLA President & CEO
Message from the Chairman Great things are happening in Florida! We send thanks to everyone for their support and commitment through the toughest year our industry has ever seen. Good things have happened in the legislature this year: alcohol-to-go is a permanent part of the law now, VISIT FLORIDA is funded at $75 million and COVID-19 liability protection has become law. Now, 2021 is moving our state in a positive direction, but we all could use a little help. We are all looking for ways to remind people what great careers can be found in hospitality. The FRLA is leading the charge to help us all find staff; look to your local ProStart programs for new team members. Another way is to reach out through digital means. Check out our 6 SUMMER
2021
brand-new website GreatFloridaJob.com to post your employment needs. Always ready to partner with great causes, the FRLA has joined forces with the Blue Angels Foundation. In fact, it is a great way to interact with the best flying team in the world and help our wounded warriors. Text FRLA to 91999 to get more information. I joined! It is my great pleasure to serve our great industry this year. Let’s kick it and keep showing America and the world why they want to visit us!
Jim Shirley
Jim Shirley 2021 Chairman of the Board FLORIDA RESTAUR ANT & LOD GING A S SO CIATION
