GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS
RASM Meets with Political Leaders at 2021 Virtual GARD By: Max Brandow, RASM Government Affairs Director
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n March, RASM participated in the 2021 Great American REALTOR® Days (GARD). RASM Key Contacts conducted meetings with representatives and senators discussing topical real estate-related legislation and lobbying for Florida REALTORS® 2021 legislative priorities. GARD is an excellent way for our members to get in front of elected officials (virtually this year) and advocate for issues that promote real estate and bolster our industry. Below are just a few priorities Florida REALTORS® and RASM is advocating for this session:
BUSINESS LIABILITY PROTECTIONS
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
The current pandemic has created new challenges for businesses as they seek to operate safely, limiting the potential spread of the virus. These challenges have also created opportunities for attorneys that are looking to secure new revenue streams. If Florida businesses are to continue to operate during the pandemic and eventually recover from the crisis, they will need protections from these legal actions.
Florida continues to experience an affordable housing crisis. The current pandemic has exacerbated this crisis, making solutions more important than ever. Although lawmakers have a difficult task of closing a significant budget gap during the 2021 Legislative Session, it is imperative that they allocate as much funding as possible for affordable housing projects. Florida REALTORS® will continue to advocate for full funding from the trust funds to be allocated for affordable housing projects.
RISING PROPERTY INSURANCE COSTS
PRIVATE PROPERTY RIGHTS
Property insurance costs are rising at alarming levels in many parts of Florida. These increased costs are making insurance unaffordable for many Floridians and the problem will likely get worse unless action is taken. Florida REALTORS® supports sensible legislation that seeks to reduce occurrences of unnecessary litigation while ensuring homeowners are treated fairly by insurance companies.
WATER QUALITY & ENVIRONMENTAL FUNDING Water is the lifeblood of all Florida residents and visitors to our state. It forms the foundation of our communities and must be protected. Florida REALTORS® will continue to advocate for Florida’s natural resources and a pristine environment. We will also encourage all stakeholders, including the state of Florida, to do their part to help solve environmental problems. Florida REALTORS® continues its support of state funding to help preserve the Everglades. Florida REALTORS® supports legislation that addresses the escalating problem of rising sea levels in Florida’s coastal communities. Florida REALTORS® encourages the Florida Legislature to rely on scientific and engineering expertise to highlight vulnerable areas, prioritize critical work projects and create a long-term plan that can address these important environmental issues. 16 | ELEVATE [ APRIL 2021 ]
The Internet has made it easier for homeowners to rent their property, expanding housing options for individuals who live in, or travel to, Florida. Many local governments have enacted new ordinances designed to discourage property owners from exercising their right to rent their property. State and local Realtor® associations will continue to take action to protect private property rights.
BUSINESS RENT TAX The state sales tax rate on business rent currently stands at 5.5%. This tax creates a financial burden for any business that leases space. Lowering the business rent tax will provide Florida businesses with the capital to expand, hire more employees, improve benefits, raise salaries, or invest in their business in other ways. Florida REALTORS® is grateful for the support of the 2017, 2018, and 2019 Florida Legislatures, which have lowered the state sales tax rate on commercial space to 5.5%. These three consecutive years of rate cuts have given Florida businesses the financial resources they need to grow their companies and enrich their communities. Florida REALTORS® will continue to advocate for further reductions to this tax, which would provide businesses with some measure of relief as they work to stay open and eventually recover from the current crisis. •
