CFO Patronis Bars Unclaimed Property From Being Returned to Enemies of Israel
~ Further Directs
Unclaimed Property Division to Expedite Check Disbursements to Israel ~
TALLAHASSEE,
Fla. –
Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a directive
barring the Department of Financial Services, Unclaimed Property Division, from
returning unclaimed property to nation-states, and other regions, that
facilitate attacks and other hostilities towards Israel. The countries barred
under the directive include Iran, Syria, Lebanon and regions associated with
Palestine. To view the CFO’s directive, click HERE.
CFO
Jimmy Patronis
said, “There’s never been a more important time to stand with Israel. Under a
federal license, Florida was compelled to not only turn over unclaimed
property, but provide interest to claimants that were in areas that were
outwardly hostile to Israel. That’s insane and we’re putting a stop to it. Not
one cent will leave Florida to be used for potential terrorist activity.
Moreover, I’ve directed the Unclaimed Property division to take steps in
proactively returning about $176,000 worth of property back to Israelis.
Florida is a staunch ally of Israel, and as they’re fighting for their very
existence, every dollar counts. I urge Treasurers and Comptrollers across the
nation to take the same action.”
According
to the Division of Unclaimed Property, there are 19 accounts totaling nearly
$39,000 associated with the countries of Syria, Iran, Lebanon, and regions of
Palestine. Today’s action comes on the heels of CFO Patronis purchasing $145
million in Israel bonds. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.1
billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens and
businesses.
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About
CFO Jimmy Patronis
Chief
Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is a statewide elected
official and a member of Florida’s Cabinet who oversees the Department of
Financial Services. CFO Patronis works each day to fight insurance fraud,
support Florida’s firefighters, and ensure the state’s finances are stable to
support economic growth in the state. Follow the activities of the Department
on Facebook (FLDFS) and Twitter (@FLDFS).