Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis urged homeowners who have completed home inspections under the My Safe Florida Home program, to submit required age and income information through a survey on the Program’s website.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis warned Tesla owners and first responders about the heightened dangers of electric vehicle (EV) fires, in light of recent targeted arson attacks on Tesla vehicles and dealerships.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis provides important recovery information and resources for Florida residents impacted by recent severe weather across the state. The CFO provided information on avoiding post-storm fraud and how to obtain insurance assistance through the Division of Insurance Consumer Services toll-free insurance helpline.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis activated his Disaster Fraud Action Strike Teams (DFAST), which have been deployed to the affected counties to protect Floridians from storm-related fraud following the impacts of tornado activity in Seminole County. Two teams consisting of nine sworn law enforcement officers have already been deployed to educate and inform the public on signs of post-storm fraud and ensure contractors are following Florida workers’ compensation laws while conducting repairs. An additional team will be deployed tomorrow, bringing the total law enforcement personnel up to 14, to assist with anti-fraud efforts over the next week.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $42 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of February. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.7 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida residents.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis urges Floridians to make preparations to homes and property ahead of a severe weather event that is expected to bring damaging winds, possible tornadoes, and coastal flooding to the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend, starting as early as tonight. Floridians are encouraged to follow the tips below and visit PrepareFL.com to plan accordingly for the impending storm.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced legislation aimed at enhancing Florida’s resilience against hurricanes and severe weather. The proposed legislation, Senate Bill 1466 and House Bill 851, will create the 'My Safe Florida Home Trust Fund,' designed to allocate critical resources towards hardening our communities and ensuring the safety of Floridians during storm events. The My Safe Florida Home Program has been widely successful, allocating more than $576 million in home-hardening grants to more than 58,000 homeowners statewide.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the appointment of Tasha Carter, Florida’s Insurance Consumer Advocate, to the Florida Insurance Guaranty Association (FIGA) Board of Directors. FIGA is a nonprofit corporation created by the Florida Legislature in 1970 and services pending claims by Florida policyholders of member insurance companies that become insolvent and are ordered liquidated.

Today, Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis issued a directive to the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) banning the use of “DeepSeek,” a Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) company. DeepSeek is a newly launched competitor to ChatGPT and other American-operated AI companies that presents a major national security risk, as it is designed to capture massive amounts of user data — including highly personal information — that is vulnerable to the Chinese Communist Party. Through his directive, CFO Patronis is taking the lead on protecting critical state information from a foreign adversary.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the appointment of Fort Walton Beach Police Chief Robert Bage to the State of Immigration Enforcement Council. The Council is an advisory body that advises the new State Board of Immigration Enforcement led by Governor DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet, which includes Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis, Attorney General James Uthmeier, and Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson. The Florida Legislature established the State Board of Immigration Enforcement in February 2025 to combat illegal immigration in the state of Florida.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis gave remarks during a meeting of the Governor and Cabinet in Niceville, Florida. During the meeting, the Governor and Cabinet appointed former U.S. Attorney Larry Keefe as the first acting Director of the newly created Florida State Board of Immigration Enforcement

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced that members of his Criminal Investigations Division (CID) Bomb Squad Team were deployed to Daytona International Speedway to help ensure safety during the Daytona 500 this weekend. The CID Bomb Squad consists of 12 Certified Bomb Technicians and two Apprentices. CID also has explosive detection K-9s that have been deployed in support of the race.

This Valentine’s Day, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is helping Floridians find “love” by looking for accounts with Valentine’s-themed names and urging them to search Florida’s Unclaimed Property database. Currently, Florida has more than $21 million in unclaimed property for residents with names such as Love, Valentine, Heart and more. Additionally, since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.7 billion in Unclaimed Property has been returned to Floridians.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the appointment of Frank White of Pensacola to the Citizens Property Insurance Corporation Board of Governors. The Florida Legislature created Citizens in August 2002 as a not-for-profit, tax-exempt government entity to provide property insurance to eligible Florida property owners unable to find insurance coverage in the private market.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued an official letter to Elon Musk in which he recommended that the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) audit federal grants to universities for censorship funding, specifically grants from the U.S. Department of Defense and government entities that partner with USAID, such as the National Science Foundation. CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE LETTER.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $33 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of January. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.7 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida residents.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis recognized January 13-17, 2025 as Florida Thrift Week with a proclamation promoting the importance of thrift and its benefits to Florida families and the state's economy. Every year, Florida Thrift Week encourages financial literacy and responsible consumer behavior in the Sunshine State.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on Governor Ron DeSantis’ call for a special session on protecting Florida from illegal immigration, funding the My Safe Florida Home Program, addressing condo law, and petitions.

"Studies show nearly 30 percent of firefighters and 20 percent of officers are impacted by post-traumatic stress disorder, and traumatic situations on the job can really take a toll, and that’s why Florida's CFO Jimmy Patronis is requesting $3.6 million in funding for Florida's first responders."

Today, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced a request for $3.6 million in funding to improve mental health care for Florida's first responders, including firefighters, law enforcement, dispatchers, and Emergency Medical Services personnel. During the 2025 Legislative Session, the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) will work with lawmakers and stakeholders statewide to secure funding and develop a comprehensive mental health, peer support program, and psychological services to support Florida's first responders.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $30 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of December, closing out the calendar year with nearly $426 million returned in 2024. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, nearly $2.7 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida residents.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted significant accomplishments of the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) in 2024, including helping thousands of hurricane victims get back on their feet, cracking down on insurance fraud that drives up rates, and returning hundreds of millions of dollars in unclaimed property to the pockets of Floridians.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted key findings in the 2024 Florida Debt Report, which provides a comprehensive overview of Florida's debt obligations and financial practices. Prepared annually by the Division of Bond Finance, the report reflects the state’s commitment to maintaining fiscal discipline while investing in future growth.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis provided remarks highlighting Florida Veterans during a Veterans Roundtable hosted by the Florida Commission on the Status of Women (FCSW). Following his remarks, CFO Patronis moderated a panel with Florida Lt. Governor Jeanette Nunez highlighting financial security for Florida’s Veterans and how best to assist veterans in their transition into civilian life after returning home from a deployment. The FCSW was created over three decades ago by the Florida Legislature to raise awareness and celebrate women's contributions and successes throughout the state.

Today, during a meeting of the Governor and Florida Cabinet, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis approved significant state investments to enhance land conservation efforts in the Florida Panhandle. These strategic land purchases, totaling over 20,000 acres, underscore the state’s commitment to preserving the region's natural beauty while supporting local communities and economies.

Today, during a meeting of the Florida Cabinet, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis voted to implement the Florida Veterans Dental Care Grant Program, an initiative to provide essential dental care services to eligible veterans in Florida. During the Cabinet Meeting, the Governor and Cabinet voted to approve the publication and final adoption of the rules related to the program and implementation of House Bill 635. The grant, which allocates $1 million in funding for dental programs specifically designed for veterans, emphasizes the importance of maintaining good oral health as a critical component of overall well-being. The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reports that only 15% of veterans are eligible to access dental services through the VA.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the launch of a study to determine how gold and silver bullion can be used as legal tender in the State of Florida. Currently, gold and silver can be purchased as investment vehicles but cannot be used as money to buy goods and services. CFO Patronis’ groundbreaking study is a major first step toward the potential use of gold and silver as money in the state, and would have the added benefits of being a tax-exempt hedge against inflation and devaluation of the U.S. Dollar, as well as an alternative form of currency to protect Floridians from Central Bank Digital Currencies.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis highlights the risks of lithium-ion battery fires during the holiday season and provides tips to prevent fire-related incidents as Floridians celebrate the season with family and friends.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $31 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of November. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, nearly $2.6 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis warned consumers to beware of potential scams surrounding Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Giving Tuesday as Floridians begin their search for holiday shopping deals and offers. CFO Patronis offered tips to avoid becoming a victim of fraud or identity theft this year, as consumers are expected to spend 19% more than they did last year during the Thanksgiving holiday. In 2023, American’s donated over $3.1 billion to charitable causes during Giving Tuesday.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is encouraging all Floridians to practice fire safety while cooking during the Thanksgiving Holiday. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment. Additionally, the NFPA recommends you test your smoke alarm at least once a month and replace all smoke alarms in your home every 10 years.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis launched the 2024 Holiday Money Hunt and is encouraging Floridians to spread the word and search to see if you or your business has Unclaimed Property that has been unknown or lost and ready to recover.

Today, the Florida Department of Financial Services announced that the “My Safe Florida Condo” pilot program has received the maximum number of applications for existing grant funding and that the pilot program is no longer accepting applications at this time.

Today, during a meeting of the Florida Elections Canvassing Commission, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released a statement following the certification of voting returns in the 2024 General Election.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued an official letter to major U.S. banks warning against a coordinated activist campaign to “de-bank” meat and dairy businesses. More than 100 activist organizations are targeting the nation’s largest banks in an effort to cut off financial services for meat and dairy livestock and animal feed production, which they say will stop climate change. In his letter, CFO Patronis made it clear that Florida will not tolerate any form of financial discrimination against its livestock or agricultural industries, that no one has the right to take food off of Floridians’ tables, and that he stands ready to assist financial institutions in resisting the climate activists’ radical demands.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrests of Rochell Green and Breana Ferguson, both employees of the health care company Aetna. Green and Ferguson allegedly submitted at least 42 false insurance claims and uploaded false documentation to support their claims. The scheme took place from 2019-2023 and resulted in Green receiving more than $408,000 and Ferguson receiving more than $736,000 from their false claims.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis and the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) launched the “My Safe Florida Condo” pilot program, a new initiative that helps condominium associations strengthen their properties against hurricanes.

Today, at a press conference in Naples, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted the 'Check My Contract' portal to fight post-storm fraud. The Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) 'Check My Contract' portal assists residential or commercial property insurance policyholders who have entered into a repair contract with contractors, restoration professionals, or public adjusters related to an insurance claim.

Today, at a press conference in Tampa, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted the 'Check My Contract' portal to fight post-storm fraud following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) 'Check My Contract' portal assists residential or commercial property insurance policyholders who have entered into a repair contract with contractors, restoration professionals, or public adjusters related to an insurance claim.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the appointment of David Powell to the First Housing Development Corporation of Florida Board of Directors.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis will host a press conference TOMORROW, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 4th at 10 a.m. ET to discuss post-storm fraud prevention and provide resources for policyholders recovering from storms.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $36 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of October. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, nearly $2.6 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens. For the month of September, CFO Patronis returned more than $33 Million in Unclaimed Property to Floridians.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced a priority initiative to develop a statewide business court in Florida to support small businesses and job creators statewide. Florida's courts have the most extensive case backlog in the country, and this proposal will expedite complicated business cases and relieve the burden of these cases on the state's overwhelmed court dockets.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis toured the Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Training Facility. The CFO surveyed live firefighter and paramedic training and received a brief regarding post-storm relief and rescue efforts following Hurricane Milton, including Urban Search and Rescue assets. These assets included swift water boats, high-water vehicles, wave runners, and more.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a letter to the State Board of Administration (SBA) requesting a report on the feasibility, risk, and potential benefits of directing a portion of state retirement system monies into cryptocurrency.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of WM Roofing owner, Wilmer Maldonado, for allegedly Unlicensed Contracting During State of Emergency and Failure to Secure Worker's Compensation Insurance. Maldonado was arrested by the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Disaster Fraud Action Strike Teams (DFAST) deployed by CFO Patronis to fight fraud in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton.

Today, at a press conference in West Palm Beach, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis launched the 'Check My Contract' portal to fight post-storm fraud following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The Florida Department of Financial Services' (DFS) 'Check My Contract' portal is designed to assist residential or commercial property insurance policyholders who have entered into a repair contract with contractors, restoration professionals, or public adjusters related to an insurance claim.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis discussed the health of Florida's economy and insurance market at the 2024 Florida Chamber of Commerce Future of Florida Forum in Orlando.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that the Florida Department of Financial Services, Division of Consumer Services is hosting four insurance villages in critical locations around the state impacted by Hurricanes Milton and Helene. The villages serve as an opportunity for policyholders to meet with their insurance carriers in person and work together to file insurance claims.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on an Amicus Curiae Brief submitted by the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) in support of an appeal by a St. Johns’ County firefighter seeking heart disease disability benefits under Florida Statute 112.18(1).

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers activation of Operation Blue Roof for several counties in Florida impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that the Florida Department of Financial Services, Division of Consumer Services is hosting four insurance villages in critical locations around the state impacted by Hurricanes Milton and Helene. The villages will serve as an opportunity for policyholders to meet with their insurance carriers in person and work together to file insurance claims.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that the Florida Department of Financial Services' Division of Consumer Services is hosting an insurance village in Bradenton beginning Monday, October 14th from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Eastern. The village will serve as an opportunity for policyholders to meet with their insurance carriers in-person and work together to file insurance claims related to Hurricanes Milton and Helene. Additional Insurance Villages are expected to be announced in the coming days.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis deployed mental health resources for first responders to areas impacted by Hurricane Milton. The Florida Mental Wellness Team has been actively deployed under the State Emergency Response Plan (SERP) through ESF 4 & 9, managed by the State Fire Marshal’s Office. The team, which is comprised of nearly 25 members from 16 fire departments across Florida, receives essential clinical support from the 2nd Alarm Project and UCF RESTORES, ensuring a comprehensive mental wellness approach for the state’s first responders.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis activated his Disaster Fraud Action Strike Teams (DFAST), which have been deployed to the affected counties to protect Floridians from storm-related fraud following the impacts of Hurricane Milton. This deployment consists of three teams with 18 sworn law enforcement officers who are working to educate and inform the public on signs of post-storm fraud and ensure contractors are following Florida workers’ compensation law while conducting repairs. Since deploying DFAST, officers have interacted with nearly 100 homeowners, businesses, and contractors in storm affected counties.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis provides insurance tips and resources to aid Floridians as they work to recover from Hurricane Milton. The Department of Financial Services' (DFS) Division of Insurance Consumer Services provides information and resources to help guide policyholders through the insurance claims process. DFS also operates the state's insurance helpline at 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (693-5236) to aide policyholders and provide insurance assistance. The helpline is now open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern. Consumers can also request assistance online at MyFloridaCFO.com.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued an Emergency Rule to enhance transparency in the claims adjusting process for insurance consumers by requiring adjusters to identify and provide detailed explanations for any changes made to damage estimates.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis provided an update on the pre-staging and response efforts of Florida's Urban Search & Rescue (US&R) Task Forces ahead of the impacts of Hurricane Milton.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued a warning to residents and first responders about an alarming fire hazard with Lithium-ion batteries, Electric Vehicles (EV), as well as hybrid and fuel cell vehicles in preparation of Hurricane Milton, now a Category 5 storm. The CFO's Division of State Fire Marshal has confirmed 48 lithium-ion battery fires related to storm surge from Hurricane Helene, with 11 of those fires associated with EVs. Consumer items containing lithium-ion batteries include cars, scooters, hover boards, golf carts or children's toys. The CFO also called on EV manufacturers to be pro-active by alerting consumers to place their EVs to higher ground. Finally, the CFO provided tips on Lithium-Ion Battery safety and how to prepare similar devices in areas prone to storm surge flooding.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis urges Floridians to take the necessary precautions to prepare their homes and property ahead of Hurricane Milton. Currently a major Category 5 storm, Milton is expected to bring devastating wind, rain, and widespread flooding to communities along the Florida Peninsula. The storm could potentially bring enormous coastal flooding, so Floridians should be aware of recovery tips and resources offered by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Currently, 51 Florida counties are under a declared state of emergency , and some communities are currently under evacuation orders.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that the Florida Department of Financial Services' Division of Consumer Services is hosting an Insurance Village Friday, October 4th through Sunday, October 6th from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Eastern

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that grant funds associated with the “My Safe Florida Home” program have been fully obligated and that he will ask the Florida Legislature to direct sales tax dollars generated from hurricane recovery efforts to be reinvested into the program to support more homeowners.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued a warning to residents and first responders about an alarming fire hazard with Lithium-ion batteries, Electric Vehicles (EV), as well as hybrid and fuel cell vehicles developing in the wake of Hurricane Helene. The CFO's Division of State Fire Marshal has confirmed 16 lithium-ion battery fires related to storm surge from Helene, with six of those fires associated with EVs. State fire officials believe these statistics to be conservative figures and are working with fire departments statewide to gather more data and determine any structural impacts related to EVs and lithium-battery fires following this storm. The State Fire Marshal Office is also coordinating with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for guidance on proper lithium-ion battery disposal.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.— Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis activated his Disaster Fraud Action Strike Teams (DFAST), which have been deployed to the affected counties to protect Floridians from storm-related fraud following the impacts of Hurricane Helene.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a directive, which bolsters his anti-fraud fighting teams in the affected counties following Hurricane Helene. Currently, there are 80 law enforcement officers from the CFO’s Criminal Investigations Division (CID) who have been deployed. These law enforcement officers will take appropriate legal action, including arrest, prosecution, and/or issuance of civil penalties for anyone who is engaging in fraudulent insurance practices.

In response to Hurricane Helene, the Department of Financial Services (DFS) reminds all insureds and industry licensees of certain rights and obligations that arise during a declared state of emergency, including:

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis provides important recovery information and resources for Florida residents impacted by Hurricane Helene.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis urges Floridians to take the necessary precautions to prepare their homes and property ahead of Tropical Storm Helene. This tropical storm is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane and bring devastating wind, rain, and flooding to communities along the Florida Gulf Coast.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the appointment of David Chapman, Andrew Clark, Sanjena Clay, Christian Jensen, and William Quinn to the Board of Funeral, Cemetery, and Consumer Services. The Board of Funeral, Cemetery, and Consumer Services was created within the Department of Financial Services and consists of 10 members, 9 of whom are appointed by the Chief Financial Officer and confirmed by the Senate. The remaining member of the Board is the State Health Officer or his/her designee.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement supporting Governor Ron DeSantis’ Executive Order to investigate the second assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump. As a member of the Florida Cabinet, CFO Patronis helps oversee the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. CFO Patronis’ statement was first posted on X, HERE.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis proclaimed September 15 – September 21, 2024 as National Truck Driver Appreciation Week and acknowledged the contributions American truckers make towards our national and state economy. Trucking careers serve as one out of every 18 jobs in the state of Florida, with more than 453,000 Floridians employed in the trucking industry. Florida’s truckers are essential to Florida commerce and ensuring that Floridians receive the goods and services they need to live or start and grow a business.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis gave opening remarks at the 2024 Lithium Ion Battery Symposium hosted at the Florida State Fire College in Ocala. The two-day symposium covers a broad range of lithium ion battery related topics and included a battery burn demonstration to highlight the serious fire risk they pose to Florida communities.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Jasiel Mena, a previously licensed home inspector, for allegedly falsifying home inspections in various Florida counties and defrauding Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens) out of approximately $88,000. Mena was charged with one count of Scheme to Defraud, a first-degree felony.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted efforts to bolster Florida’s apprenticeship programs and the work-based learning programs for students 18 years old or less throughout the state by reimbursing the cost of workers’ compensation insurance to participating employers. During the 2024 Legislative Session, lawmakers provided $2 million to the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) to permit employers, including eligible school districts and Florida College System institutions, to apply to DFS for reimbursement of the proportionate cost of workers’ compensation premium paid during the fiscal year for students participating in work-based learning programs.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrests of Yanirma Toledo, Lensky Jose Hernandez-Santiago and Maylett Leiva-Santana. These individuals are charged with intentionally defrauding United Auto Insurance Company to allegedly exploit the personal injury and protection (PIP) benefits associated with the auto policies for financial gain. Toledo, Hernandez-Santiago, and Leiva-Santana allegedly defrauded United Auto Insurance Company more than $47,000 in total.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $39 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of August. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, nearly $2.5 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the appointment of Melvin Pope to the Florida Life and Health Insurance Guaranty Association (FLHIGA) Board of Directors. Created in 1979 by the Florida Legislature, the FLHIGA is composed of all insurers licensed to sell direct life insurance, accident and health insurance, and certain annuities in the state of Florida. If a member insurer is found to be insolvent and is ordered to be liquidated by a court, FLHIGA provides protection to Florida residents who are holders of life and health insurance policies and certain annuities with the insolvent insurer.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the appointment of Thomas Koval to the Florida Workers’ Compensation Insurance Guaranty Association (FWCIGA) Board of Directors. The FWCIGA provides a mechanism for the payment of covered claims, to avoid excessive delay in payment and to avoid financial loss to claimants in the event of the insolvency of a member insurer. Among other tasks, the FWCIGA also evaluates workers’ compensation claims made by insureds against insolvent member companies or funds and determines if such claims are covered claims which should be paid or settled with funds from FWCIGA.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the appointment of Randall Jenkins to the Florida Birth-Related Neurological Injury Compensation Association (NICA) Board of Directors. NICA is a statutory organization that manages state funds used to pay for the care of children and adults born with certain neurological injuries. NICA’s mission is to get birth-injured children and adults the care they need while reducing the financial burden on medical providers and families.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the State of Florida has secured a portion of a $157 million settlement with the State of Delaware following an unclaimed property dispute regarding funds abandoned by MoneyGram Payment Systems, Inc. Under the terms of the settlement, Delaware will transfer more than $12.2 million of the funds that MoneyGram reported to Delaware from 2011 to 2017 to the State of Florida. Following a Supreme Court decision in 2023, CFO Patronis wrote a letter to the State of Delaware demanding the return of millions of dollars held in the form of unclaimed property that belongs to residents of Florida. The property includes proceeds from financial instruments that, according to the Supreme Court decision, should have been allocated to the state where the instrument was purchased. Since 2017, CFO Patronis’ Division of Unclaimed Property has returned more than $2.5 billion to Floridians.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is urging Floridians to take advantage of the 2024 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday to save money and prepare now by stocking up on essential hurricane supplies. Between August 24 – September 6, 2024, consumers will be able to purchase much needed hurricane-preparation supplies without paying taxes. This 14-day tax holiday allows Floridians to prepare for hurricane season while saving money on disaster preparedness items such as flashlights less than $40, batteries less than $50, tarps and pet food under $100, generators less than $3,000, and much more.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that a record $2.51 million was generated by the state's unclaimed property auction in West Palm Beach this weekend, including the sale of 505 lots consisting of more than 66,000 items. Some of the items auctioned included a men’s gold ruby and diamond ring and a ladies platinum and diamond Hamilton watch. Until claimed, unclaimed funds are deposited into Florida's school fund for the benefit of public education. There is no statute of limitations and consumers have the right to claim their unclaimed funds at any time, at no cost. During the 2023-2024 Fiscal Year, the Division of Unclaimed Property also returned an annual record of more than $433 million to Floridians.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced an investigation by the Florida Department of Financial Services’ (DFS) Division of Agent and Agency Services into nationwide vehicle service contract company CarShield for deceptive sales practices in Florida. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently fined CarShield $10 million to resolve charges of deceptive advertising and misrepresentations by celebrity endorsers. DFS regulates and licenses warranty and service contract sales representatives and agencies. Following the recent fines levied by the FTC, the Department will conduct a review of sales agents and agencies who promote and sell CarShield products.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis proposed the “Sunshine Freedom Bank,” a public bank of Florida that would establish state control over state funds. The Florida Treasury, which CFO Patronis oversees, processes over $150 billion annually but relies on banks in New York City and San Francisco to manage those funds. The Sunshine Freedom Bank would provide the opportunity to manage taxpayer dollars completely in the State of Florida, save on administrative costs, increase investment earnings, and improve Floridians’ bottom line by saving taxpayer dollars — as every investment dollar earned is one less that needs to be taxed.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the Florida Unclaimed Property Auction next weekend in West Palm Beach, with the auction preview beginning on Friday, August 23 at 9 AM EST and the auction beginning on Saturday, August 24 at 9 AM EST.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez, owner of Maximum Claims Recovery, Inc., on two counts of felony charges of Unlicensed Public Adjusting. Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez allegedly secured public insurance adjuster contracts for adjusting, and appraisal services, without being licensed in the state of Florida, and then unlawfully withheld money belonging to two policyholders. Gonzalez defrauded the two policyholders out of $34,424.

Today, Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis issued a formal letter to Rep. Jim Jordan, chairman of the U.S. House Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government, requesting an investigation into the insidious practice of “debanking.” Debanking involves denying, suspending or dropping law-abiding banking consumers from financial institutions or services over their political and religious beliefs, and it has exploded under the Biden-Harris administration. The letter also comes in response to the U.S. Treasury Department’s effort to target Florida for enacting House Bill 989, a law that protects consumers from debanking and other partisan financial abuses within the state. A senior Treasury official recently characterized Florida’s consumer protection law as supporting “terrorism,” when in fact it frustrates the administration’s ability to hide behind national security when weaponizing the federal government against law-abiding citizens and businesses.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $50 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of July. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.5 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a consumer alert warning Floridians about unregulated consumer loan products and the impacts of excessive household debt affecting families across the country.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement in support of Senator Rick Scott’s Homeowners Premium Tax Reduction Act. This proposed legislation will provide American homeowners an above-the-line tax deduction of up to $10,000 of premiums paid for homeowners’ insurance annually at their primary residence.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued an Emergency Order to protect insurance policyholders following the impacts of Hurricane Debby. Among other provisions, the order extends the recission period of a public adjusters contract from 10 days to 30 days, requires anyone working in the claims process on behalf of the carrier to respond to policyholders within seven days, and requires that all adjusters verbally identify themselves and who they work for before signing a contract with a policyholder.

Following the impacts of Hurricane Debby, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following consumer alert warning consumers of contracts designed to avoid Florida’s ban on assignment of benefits (AOBs). AOBs were used by contractors to transfer the homeowner’s property insurance rights to the contractor but have been prohibited in Florida since January 1, 2023.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis activated his Disaster Fraud Action Strike Teams (DFAST) which have been deployed to Levy, Dixie, Taylor, Lafayette, Suwannee, and Hamilton counties to protect Floridians from storm-related fraud following the impacts of Hurricane Debby.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is urging Floridians to take the necessary precautions to prepare their homes and property ahead of the tropical wave forming in the Gulf of Mexico. The tropical wave could strengthen into a tropical storm and bring heavy rain and damaging winds to communities in the Florida peninsula then possibly moving into the panhandle. The storm could potentially bring a threat of coastal flooding, so Floridians should be up to date on recovery tips and resources offered by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a directive to the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS), which the CFO oversees, barring the use of censorship and blacklisting services, like NewsGuard Technologies, Inc., that attach “credibility ratings” to news sources. Adverse ratings can diminish a legitimate news source’s reputation and advertising revenue, often intentionally, and are known to apply according to subjective factors, like political bias, not factual inaccuracies. The directive bars both the Department and its contractors from utilizing censorship media-monitoring services when making ad-buys or marketing placements for Departmental services.

A growing number of states are forcing public employee pension funds to divest from China, pulling out of the world’s second-largest economy because of hostility toward Beijing and fear that U.S. assets could be frozen if conflict breaks out in the Indo-Pacific.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that the Florida Department of Financial Services’ Division of Treasury generated a record $1.95 billion in interest earnings during Fiscal Year 2023-2024. These earnings derive from state funds and other monies that the Division of Treasury invests on behalf of taxpayers, while remaining effective stewards of resources that fund operational state duties and other financial assets entrusted to its care.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued an official letter to President Donald J. Trump outlining the nation’s insurance crisis and recommending specific actions to bring costs under control. Under the Biden-Harris administration, families and businesses have endured skyrocketing insurance costs that have put the American Dream out of reach for too many hard-working people. Since taking office, homeowners’ insurance rates have increased an estimated 37% nationally, and the Consumer Price Index has increased nearly 20%. CFO Patronis made it clear in his letter that the status quo is totally unacceptable, and that a Trump administration can rein in premiums for all Americans.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) will host a ‘Fixing Problems for Floridians Fair’ in Orlando on Wednesday, July 24, 2024. The event is open to the public and will consist of experts from DFS to assist Floridians with their issues and educate consumers on resources available to them.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the appointment of Tom Gallagher to the Florida Insurance Guaranty Association (FIGA) Board of Directors. FIGA is a nonprofit corporation created by the Florida Legislature in 1970 and services pending claims by Florida policyholders of member insurance companies that become insolvent and are ordered liquidated.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $26 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of June. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, nearly $2.5 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the reopening of the My Safe Florida Home program's grant application portal tomorrow, Monday, July 1. The program will prioritize senior citizens and low-income homeowners with two special application periods before opening to the public. The initiative offers free home inspections and grants up to $10,000 for strengthening homes against storms with impact-resistant doors and windows, aiming to reduce insurance costs through mandatory mitigation discounts. Newly signed legislation provides an additional $200 million for the program, enhancing services for seniors and low-income homeowners. Since 2022, the program has conducted over 104,000 free inspections, approved 38,000 grant applications, and allocated nearly $390 million in home hardening grants.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the appointment of D. Ryan West to the Florida Insurance Guaranty Association (FIGA) Board of Directors. FIGA is a nonprofit corporation created by the Florida Legislature in 1970 and services pending claims by or against Florida policyholders of member insurance companies that become insolvent and are ordered liquidated.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of two insurance agents, and a third individual, for their alleged involvement in an insurance agent license testing fraud scheme in Miami. Rainer Miguel Salas and his son Rainer Alexander Salas, a licensed Florida insurance agent, and receptionist Karla Lit Peralta Ceballos, also a licensed Florida insurance agent, allegedly accepted payments and facilitated the fraudulent acquisition of approximately five Florida insurance agents' licenses by taking licensing exams on behalf of other individuals.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a proclamation recognizing June 27, 2024 as National PTSD Awareness Day and is highlighting resources and aid available to first responders living with PTSD. Since 2017, CFO Patronis has been dedicated to serving Florida’s first responders and has supported efforts to expand PTSD benefits, including $10 million in the 2024 Focus on Florida’s Future Budget that will go directly toward aiding veterans and first responders.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is alerting Floridians about new features in vehicles that track and collect your personal information and provided tips on how to limit data collection on you and your family.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released the following statement on new economic reports that show Florida's economy outpacing the nation as indicated by the latest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures. The states GDP grew by 21.9 percent from the first quarter of 2019 to the first quarter of 2024, doubling the national GDP during that time and highlighting a robust economic trajectory despite inflationary challenges.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is warning Floridians to be weary of misleading solicitations and flyers claiming to be associated with the My Safe Florida Home (MSFH) program and promoting “free roofs and windows”. Before conducting any business with a contractor, homeowners should verify their credentials and understand the MSFH grant process to avoid falling victim to fraud.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis warns parents, caregivers and loved ones to never leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle especially as a stifling heat wave impacts much of the state. In 2023, 29 children died in hot car related tragedies including seven from Florida.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis provided information and resources for Florida residents who may be impacted by the torrential rain and flooding throughout South Florida last week. On Friday, CFO Patronis visited the Broward County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to assess storm recovery needs. Listed below are insurance claims contacts for the top automobile insurance companies in the South Florida area and resources from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). For individuals who have flood insurance policies for their residence through FEMA and NFIP, the CFO encourages consumers to contact their insurance agents for more information about filing a claim. Consumers may also reach NFIP directly at 877-336-2627.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is warning Floridians of the potential fire dangers associated with aftermarket lithium-ion powered batteries ahead of Father’s Day. There are many aftermarket and even counterfeit batteries on store shelves or online that may seem like a bargain, but purchasing one of these batteries could result in poor performance, shorter tool life, and may even pose serious fire dangers.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to Airbnb CEO Bryan Cheskey regarding the companies rental listings and business practices within Communist-controlled Cuba and possible profits earned from properties confiscated from Cuban Americans by the Cuban government. Airbnb was recently sued in Florida for listing property in Cuba confiscated by Castro decades ago.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauded Governor Ron DeSantis’ signing of Florida’s 2024 Focus on Florida’s Future Budget. The Department of Financial Services (DFS) requested and received critical funding including $7 million to bolster insurance consumer services and expand the agency’s footprint across the state. DFS also secured $200 million to fund the My Safe Florida Home program to harden homes against storms and help cut insurance costs. Lastly, the Department will receive $7 million to support the state fire college and arson lab and $10 million to aid veterans and first responders in their battle against PTSD.

Today, during a meeting of the Florida Cabinet, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis voted to approve rules to implement a reduction in Florida’s Commercial Lease Sales Tax rate to reduce the tax burden on small businesses following the successful replenishment of the Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund. Passed by the Florida Legislature in 2021, the Commercial Lease Sales Tax cut will reduce the rate from 4.5 percent to 2.0 percent, providing Florida employers with an estimated $1 billion in tax relief. Last session, CFO Patronis also supported measures that would provide counties with the authority to provide tax breaks for small local businesses by allowing local governments to forgo the collection of their business rent taxes.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis provided information and resources for Florida residents who may be impacted by the severe weather threatening to cause torrential rain and flooding throughout South Florida this week. The CFO provided information for residents with coverage through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and who might be affected by flood damage. Managed by FEMA, NFIP offers flood insurance to help mitigate the impact of flooding on businesses, property owners, and renters. For individuals who have flood insurance policies through FEMA and its federal flood insurance program, the CFO encourages consumers to contact their insurance agents for more information about filing a claim. Consumers may also reach FEMA directly at 1-800-621-3362.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Miguel Ferrer, a retired Town of Davie Fire Captain, for insurance fraud related to a claim for additional living expense (ALE) connected to a homeowner property claim from March 2022.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that the Florida Deferred Compensation Plan will allow 457b Pre-Tax and 457b Roth (post-tax) payroll contributions starting in July 2024. 457b Roth payroll contributions are made on a post-tax basis and give eligible State of Florida Employees more flexibility in meeting retirement income goals and securing their financial future.

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Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $32 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of May. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.4 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is providing additional recovery resources and warning residents to be on the lookout for fraud as they work to recover from severe weather and tornados that devastated parts of North Florida on May 10th, 2024.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is encouraging Floridians to take advantage of the Florida Home Hardening Sales Tax Exemption before it ends on June 30, 2024. This initiative established a two-year sales tax exemption on the retail sales of items like impact-resistant windows, doors, and garage doors. Overall, the Florida Home Hardening Sales Tax Exemption program has saved homeowners an estimated $462 million during the course of the exemption period.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis and the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) announce the arrest of Insurance Agent, Bryce Corey Tyminski, for alleged fraudulent insurance claims and criminal use of personal identification. Tyminski intended to defraud Americo Financial Life & Annuity Insurance Company and American Amicable Life Insurance Company of Texas out of more than $1,200.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $32 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of May. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.4 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, ahead of the start of the 2024 Hurricane Season on Saturday, June 1st, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is highlighting hurricane preparedness financial tips and resources to aid Floridians with their disaster plans as an active storm season is predicted with up to 25 named storms and seven major hurricanes. The CFO also encouraged Floridians to take advantage of the Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday starting June 1st – June 14th.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis and the Florida Department of Financial Services hosted a “Fixing Problems for Floridians” Fair in West Palm Beach. The event, which was open to the public, consisted of experts from DFS to assist Floridians with their issues and educate consumers on a wide variety of resources available to them.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the appointment of Jon Ritchie to the Florida Insurance Guaranty Association (FIGA) Board of Directors. FIGA is a nonprofit corporation created by the Florida Legislature in 1970 and services pending claims by or against Florida policyholders of member insurance companies that become insolvent and are ordered liquidated.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of four individuals including Bryan Carlos Hernandez, Rusland Rivero Tellez, Juan Fonseca Lauzao, and Elvis Fonseca Lauzao for their role in an alleged Personal Injury Protection (PIP) fraud scheme. The four allegedly had the intention to defraud National General Insurance and Progressive Insurance Company by exploiting the PIP benefits associated with their auto policies for financial gain.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a proclamation recognizing May 20th – May 24, 2024 as Contractor Fraud Awareness Week. Since 2017, CFO Patronis has made it a top priority to protect consumers from fraud by launching the Fraud Free Florida initiative and standing up additional fraud investigative task forces throughout the state. If you or someone you know is suspicious of fraud, report it immediately at FraudFreeFlorida.com.

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Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) will host a “Fixing Problems for Floridians” Fair in West Palm Beach on Tuesday, May 28th, 2024. The event is open to the public and will consist of experts from DFS to assist Floridians with their issues and educate consumers on resources available to them. Florida's Insurance Consumer Advocate Tasha Carter will also be on hand to help insurance policyholders who are dealing with a challenging claims process. Insurance consumers can learn more about ways to reduce their premiums through the My Safe Florida Home program and Workers’ Compensation professionals will also be on hand to help small businesses navigate any issues they have. The Department will also have an Unclaimed Property Portal on hand to assist Floridians in collecting any unclaimed cash they are entitled to.

Today, following recent severe storms that impacted much of the Panhandle and Big Bend, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is reminding Floridians of their rights and vital consumer protections measures following hurricanes and storms. Last year, the CFO fought for legislation to help consumers fight back against bad public adjuster contracts. HB 1185, Consumer Protection, was passed by the legislature in 2023 and signed into law by Governor DeSantis. This legislation created a rescission period of 30 days after the storm or 10 days after the public adjuster contract was signed to allow consumers a way out of a bad public adjuster contract. For more information on post-disaster scams, or insurance help, please contact the Florida Department of Financial Services, Division of Consumer services at 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (693-5236) or visit PrepareFL.com.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced he sent a letter late yesterday evening to U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Brett Guthrie, who serve as chairs of committees overseeing the U.S. Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS), where he stated that the Affordable Health Care Act (ACA, or “Obamacare”) Marketplace is allowing fraud to occur against Floridians. The ACA Marketplace has weak protections against bad actors who switch policyholders’ health insurance plans, without consent, to collect commission. Fraudsters will also signup participants in different states using Marketplace, leading to tax penalties against victims because they do not qualify for ACA products.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that the Department of Financial Services (DFS) has started rulemaking to develop new standards and protocols for managing lithium-ion battery fires in devices such as electric vehicles (EVs), scooters and golfcarts.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the appointment of Glenn Ritchie and Benjamin Treuil to the Florida Insurance Guaranty Association (FIGA) Board of Directors. CFO Patronis also reappointed Kimberly Blackburn to the FIGA Board of Directors. FIGA is a nonprofit corporation created by the Florida Legislature in 1970 and services pending claims by or against Florida policyholders of member insurance companies that become insolvent and are ordered liquidated.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of four individuals including, Maria Campos, Isabella Mendez, Madison Martinez, and Krystal Arbona for their role in an alleged Personal Injury Protection (PIP) fraud scheme. The four allegedly had the intention to defraud United Auto Insurance Company, Responsive Insurance, and Infinity Automobile Insurance Company, by exploiting the PIP benefits associated with their auto policies for financial gain.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis activated his Disaster Fraud Action Strike Team (DFAST) which has been deployed to Leon and Gadsden Counties to protect Floridians from storm-related fraud following recent tornados and severe weather. CFO Patronis’ anti-fraud teams work to educate and inform the public on signs of post-storm fraud and ensure contractors are following Florida workers’ compensation law while conducting repairs.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis provided recovery resources as severe weather impacted the Florida Panhandle, the Big Bend, and Northeast Florida with tornadoes, damaging winds, hail and localized flooding. Floridians are encouraged to document any damage and be on the lookout for fraud and scams as they work to recover. Visit PrepareFL.com for recovery tips and resources.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis led a Keeping Policyholder First Insurance Roundtable in Coral Gables with state legislators as well as business and community leaders to highlight the successes made to improve Florida’s property insurance market. CFO Patronis also provided an update on the My Safe Florida Home Program and recent improvements to better support seniors and low-income homeowners. During the roundtable, the CFO urged policyholders to take advantage of home hardening initiatives and asked consumers suspicious of fraud to report it immediately at FraudFreeFlorida.com.

Today, in recognition of National Arson Awareness Week, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis calls on all Floridians to be on the lookout and provide tips on any suspicious activity of potential bad actors who attempt to commit arson-related crimes. Since taking office in 2017, the CFO’s Bureau of Fire and Arson Investigations has arrested more than 1,600 individuals for arson related crimes in Florida.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following letter to former President Donald J. Trump, informing him of unclaimed property held by the State of Florida that is waiting to be claimed by President Trump, a member of his family, or the Trump organization. Unclaimed property is a financial asset that is unknown or lost or has been left inactive, unclaimed, or abandoned by its owner. The most common types of unclaimed property are dormant bank accounts, unclaimed insurance proceeds, stocks, dividends, uncashed checks, deposits, credit balances, and refunds. Unclaimed property also includes contents from abandoned safe deposit boxes in financial institutions. Unclaimed property assets are held by business or government entities (holders) for a set period of time, usually five years. If the holder is unable to locate, re-establish contact with the owner, and return the asset, it is reported and remitted to the Florida Department of Financial Services, Division of Unclaimed Property. To search for unclaimed property or to claim an account, go online to FLTreasureHunt.gov.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis gave remarks at the Florida Capitol during a ceremony unveiling the Bob Milligan Conference Room in the CFO’s Office. Bob Milligan served as Florida Comptroller from January 3, 1995 to January 7, 2003, and honorably served 35-years in the U.S. Marines, ultimately being promoted and retiring as Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. In 1998, General Milligan was responsible for offering a plan to the Constitutional Revision Commission to combine the state Treasurer and Comptroller into one State Cabinet position - the Chief Financial Officer.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced that the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS), Division of State Fire Marshal is deploying 43 members of Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Task Force 5 from Jacksonville to the State of Texas where severe flooding has caused life-threatening conditions in the Houston region. Additional emergency personnel are also being deployed by DFS to provide logistical needs.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued two proclamations recognizing May 4, 2024 as International Firefighters’ Day and May 5, 2024 as National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day. National Firefighter’s Day highlights the duty and bravery of firefighters around the country who put their lives on the line to protect life and property. National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day honors firefighters and emergency services personnel who have sacrificed their lives to save others.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauded Governor Ron DeSantis for signing HB 939, a Consumer Protection Bill. Among other provisions, this legislation mandates cash-app companies like Venmo, PayPal and Zelle create protections so users are not unfairly taxed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for transactions that are unrelated to goods-or-services. The legislation also creates a 10-day recission period during declared disasters where policyholders can get out of bad roofing contracts.

Today, at a press conference in Jacksonville, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis joined Governor Ron DeSantis for the signing of House Bill 989, the Department of Financial Services (DFS) Agency Bill. Among many provisions, this legislation creates the Florida Taxpayer Advocate and bolsters the services provided by the Division of Insurance Consumer Services to support consumers. This legislation also create rules and regulations to prevent fires caused by lithium-ion batteries commonly found in electronic vehicles (EVs) such as scooters, hoverboards, golf carts, and battery-powered cars and designates cryptocurrency as unclaimed property. Lastly, this bill rebrands the fraud and arson investigations unit of the Department from the Division of Investigative and Forensic Services (DIFS) to the newly named Criminal Investigations Division (CID).

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $34 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of April. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, nearly $2.4 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis warned Floridians on the potential increase in property insurance premiums and other pitfalls when purchasing solar panels and having them installed on the roof of their home or business. Several states have seen a massive increase in residential solar panel installation, growing by 1,106% in the last five years, with many offering incentives for these installations. However, there are potential hazards to these installations, such as compromised roof integrity, an increase in homeowners insurance, and a difficulty in finding property insurance coverage.

Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announces the arrest of 16 individuals in a workers’ compensation insurance fraud sting operation involving unlicensed contractors in Manatee County. The operation was in collaboration with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO).

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis led a Keeping Policyholder First Insurance Roundtable in Clearwater with state legislators as well as business and community leaders to highlight the successes made to improve Florida’s property insurance market.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced he was issuing the following letter to the Florida Congressional delegation, encouraging their support of legislation authored by Senator Rick Scott and Senator Marco Rubio, along with efforts by Representative Aaron Bean, codifying the state’s ability to permit certain projects.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauded Governor Ron DeSantis for signing legislation to fund and improve the My Safe Florida Home (MSFH) program. The successful MSFH program provides free home inspections and up to $10,000 in grants to allow Florida homeowners to strengthen their home against storms with home hardening products like impact resistant doors and windows, while cutting insurance costs through mandatory home mitigation discounts. Legislation signed into law today provides an additional $200 million in funding for the program. Since 2022, the program has successfully completed more than 104,000 free home inspections, approved more than 38,000 grant applications, and obligated nearly $390 million in home hardening grants. Since May of 2022, the state has invested more than $600 million in the My Safe Florida Home program to help Floridians harden their homes and reduce insurance costs.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis submitted a public records request to the Office of Congressman Sheldon Whitehouse related to the Rhode Island Senator’s recent interest in the solvency and stability of Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (CITIZENS).

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is encouraging Floridians to take advantage of the Florida Home Hardening Sales Tax Initiative before it ends on June 30, 2024. This initiative established a two-year sales tax exemption on the retail sales of items like impact-resistant windows, doors, and garage doors. Overall, the Florida Home Hardening Sales Tax Exemption program has saved homeowners an estimated $462.6 million during the course of the exemption period.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of four individuals, Abel Vera, Nancy Mercedes Pena, Yuniesky Betancourt, and Maura Perez in Miami-Dade County for allegedly staging an automobile accident and falsely documented the accident with police. The four had a goal of reporting the accident to the automobile insurance company, Kemper Insurance, to exploit the personal injury and protection (PIP) benefits associated with the auto policy for financial gain.

With the start of the 2024 Hurricane Season just 50 days away, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlights “Prepare Florida,” a disaster preparedness initiative to encourage Floridians to prepare now before a hurricane makes landfall. CFO Patronis’ PrepareFL.com website serves as a one-stop-shop for disaster preparedness information and resources to help Floridians ensure they are prepared to weather the next storm.

Ahead of Tax Day on Monday, April 15, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is highlighting taxpayer rights and encouraging Floridians to understand resources available to them as taxpayers. Floridians are expected to pay billions in federal income taxes this year, and the CFO has made it his mission to hold the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) accountable and provide information and resources for taxpayers.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis applauded Governor Ron DeSantis’ signing of Senate Bill 718, Exposures of First Responders to Fentanyl, by Senator Jay Collins and Representative Jessica Baker.

Florida intends to cut its ties with Morningstar until the investment firm can prove it has rooted out anti-Israel bias in its investment ratings platforms, the state’s chief financial officer told JNS on Thursday.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis toured the Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Florida Task Force 2 Training Center where he assessed hurricane preparedness and discussed the importance of Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) teams.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $33 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of March. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, nearly $2.4 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released the following statement following his visit to the U.S. Mexico border in Eagle Pass, Texas. CFO Patronis assessed U.S. border security and support efforts by the Florida Guard, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, and the Florida Highway Patrol.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Miguel Reyes, Jr. in Miami-Dade County on charges of Burglary, Arson, and Throwing a Destructive Device. On March 22, 2024, Miguel Reyes and another suspect were caught on a surveillance recording system approaching a local barbershop, shattering the front glass windows, and throwing two ignited objects into the business causing a large commercial fire. The additional suspect is still at large.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the Florida Treasury has invested an additional $50 million in Israel bonds. Following the terror attacks on October 7th, CFO Patronis announced that the Florida Treasury was investing $120 million in Israel Bonds, bringing Florida’s total investment in Israel bonds to $200 million, the largest total ever held at one time by the Florida Treasury. With this additional purchase, the Florida State Treasury now holds a total of $250 million in Israel Bonds. In doing so, the state aims to diversify their investment portfolio as part of a long-range investment strategy that has generated approximately $9.4 million in interest from these investments.

This St. Patrick’s Day, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is opening the vault and looking for Floridians with “St. Patrick’s Day-themed names” and urging them to search Florida’s Unclaimed Property database. Currently, Florida has more than $28 million in unclaimed property for Floridians with names including words like Green, Lucky, Gold and more. Additionally, since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.3 billion has been returned to Floridians in unclaimed property.

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Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted his 2024 ‘Florida Fights for Freedom’ Legislative Victories including the creation of the Florida Tax Advocate to fight against IRS overreach, protections for first responders from the dangers of Electric Vehicle (EV) fires and enhanced cancer benefits, and millions of dollars in funding to keep Florida’s policyholders first.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a proclamation recognizing the month of March as Fraud Prevention Month. Since 2017, CFO Patronis has made it a top priority to protect consumers from fraud by launching the Fraud Free Florida initiative and standing up additional fraud investigative task forces throughout the state. If you or someone you know is suspicious of fraud, report it immediately at FraudFreeFlorida.com.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a proclamation recognizing the week of March 3rd through March 9th, 2024 as National Consumer Protection Week. Since 2017, CFO Patronis has made it a top priority to protect consumers from fraud by launching the Fraud Free Florida initiative and standing up additional fraud investigative task forces throughout the state. If you or someone you know is suspicious of fraud, report it immediately at FraudFreeFlorida.com.

Today, Florida (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the passage of HB 939, a Consumer Protection Bill by Representative Griff Griffitts, off the House Floor.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauded the unanimous passage of House Bill 989 today from the Florida House of Representatives. As a part of his 2024 ‘Florida Fights for Freedom’ Legislative priorities, the Department of Financial Services (DFS) Agency Bill helps Floridians fight back against the IRS by creating the Florida Taxpayer Advocate, protects first responders from the dangers of Electric Vehicle (EV) fires, and supports Florida’s policyholders when complex insurance issues arise.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $44 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of February. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.3 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to 23 New York businesses to encourage them to relocate to the Sunshine State. Following the ruling against Donald Trump, the state of New York is looking at the possibility of freezing the Trump organization’s assets. The CFO is encouraging businesses to start having conversations with their partners on whether they will be able to succeed in a state like New York who shakes down job creators and let’s criminals run free in the streets. In 2022, more than 91,000 New Yorkers moved to Florida.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Gustavo Antonio Munguia for Workers’ Compensation Premium Fraud and Grand Theft. Munguia, the owner of American Iron Group Corp was actively concealing his payroll to avoid paying a higher workers' compensation premium. According to Travelers Property and Casualty Company of America, had the additional payroll been reported, American Iron Group Corp would have been assessed approximately $253,000 in additional premium charges.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to the Nobel Foundation endorsing Elon Musk for the Nobel Peace Prize. Musk was recently nominated for the prize by a Norwegian lawmaker for his defense of free speech and increasing knowledge of Earth and space.

Today, at a press conference in Lake Worth, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted the success of the My Safe Florida Home program and efforts to refund the initiative during the 2024 Legislative Session.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis gave remarks during the Florida Fire Service Day at the Florida Capitol. Florida Fire Service Day is an opportunity for the public to learn about the unique and varied services of the Florida fire service and featured fire departments and fire service organizations from across the state.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for February 14, 2024

This Valentine’s Day, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is playing Cupid and looking for Floridians with “Valentine’s-themed names” and urging them to search Florida’s Unclaimed Property database.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis testified in support of Senate Bill 1098 during the Senate Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government. Among other provisions, the bill creates vital reforms to Florida’s funeral industry to give the Department of financial Services (DFS) greater emergency authority and oversight over funeral homes and pre-need contracts following the recent investigation into the abandoned Marion Graham Mortuary in Jacksonville. Watch the CFO’s remarks on The Florida Channel, click HERE.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis shared important fire safety information to ensure Floridians enjoy Superbowl LVIII this weekend. The CFO encourages football fans to keep a fire extinguisher nearby when grilling out and keep an eye on children while in the kitchen.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released the following statement on the passage of Senate Bill 7028 yesterday.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for February 6, 2024

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for February 5, 2024

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of William Diehl for allegedly impersonating an insurance agent and defrauding consumers purchasing auto insurance. Diehl, while not licensed as an insurance agent, sold multiple fraudulent and non-existing automobile insurance policies to several unsuspecting victims, many of whom may still be unaware they are driving without auto insurance. In total, Diehl allegedly defrauded consumers of more than $29,000.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement urging Floridians to start saving now for your child’s future by enrolling in a Florida Prepaid College Plan. A college degree is a major investment and with student loan debt at $1.7 trillion nationwide, pre-planning for the cost of college is not only vital to your student’s academic success, but future financial success as well. During the Open Enrollment period from February 1 and April 30, 2024, Prepaid Plan prices have been reduced up to 25%, now starting at just $34 a month for newborns. To learn more and take advantage of the lowest Prepaid Plan prices in ten years, visit MyFloridaPrepaid.com today.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $32 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of January. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.3 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) secured an arrest warrant for Elliot Maurice Graham, Funeral Director of Marion Graham Mortuaries in Jacksonville, Florida. The arrest warrant was issued by the 4th Judicial Circuit Court following the execution of a search warrant by DFS on mortuary premises. Graham faces multiple charges, including one felony count of Grand Theft and one misdemeanor count of Improper Preservation of a Human Body.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is warning Floridians to beware of the federal government’s activities of acquiring personal transactions of consumers’ information from financial institutions. This comes as recent reports state federal agencies are asking financial institutions, like banks, credit card companies and cash-apps to search and flag Americans’ transactions if they used terms like “MAGA” or “Trump” or if they made certain purchases at retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Cabela’s, or Bass Pro Shops.

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis gave remarks at the grand opening of the new Cheney Brothers location in Port St. Lucie. Cheney Brothers is one of the fastest growing food distribution companies in the United States. The new facility in Port St. Lucie has created 260 new jobs.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis provided tips to protect Floridians from tax related fraud and scams as the federal tax preparation season begins.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Angel Santos Tzunun for worker’s compensation fraud for allegedly concealing payroll to avoid paying a higher worker’s compensation premium. Fraud detectives determined that Tzunun concealed more than $2 million in labor costs from contractors and avoided more than $100,000 in workers’ compensation premiums on two separate insurance policies.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Juana Ledezma and Luis Ledezma for Workers’ Compensation Premium Fraud and Grand Theft for allegedly concealing payroll to avoid paying a higher workers compensation premium. An investigation revealed that during the policy period, the Ledezmas would have been assessed an additional $127,660.00 in premium charges.

House Bill 989 (Representative LaMarca) – Department of Financial Services. This legislation creates the Florida Tax Advocate within the Department of Financial Services to assist Floridians with IRS related issues and complaints. It also renames the Division of Investigative and Forensic Services to the Division of Criminal Investigations. This bill also authorizes the State Fire Marshal’s office, which the CFO oversees, to create rules and regulations to prevent fires caused by lithium-ion batteries commonly found in electronic vehicles (EVs) such as scooters, hoverboards, golf carts, and battery-powered cars.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement recognizing Thursday, January 25, 2024, as NASA Day of Remembrance and honoring the brave men and women of Apollo 1, Challenger, and Columbia who lost their lives in the effort to expand America’s influence in space. This year will also mark the 55th anniversary of the Apollo 1 tragedy and the fifth anniversary of the founding of the U.S. Space Force.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following reports that federal agencies are asking financial institutions to search and flag Americans transactions if they used terms like “MAGA” or “Trump” or shopped at Dick’s Sporting Goods, Cabela’s or Bass Pro. The CFO is working with Legislators to propose new legislation to fight back against this federal overreach. To view the CFO’s thread on X, click HERE.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced his 2024 ‘Florida Fights for Freedom’ Legislative priorities. Among the CFO’s priorities are fighting back against the IRS, protecting first responders from the dangers of EV fires, supporting policyholders, safeguarding cryptocurrency assets, and barring state agencies from contracting with censorship companies like NewsGuard.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis hosted the ‘Ringing of the Bell’ ceremony to honor Florida’s fallen firefighters. During the ceremony, 16 fallen firefighters were honored as their names were inscribed on the Florida Fallen Firefighter Memorial in The Florida Capitol Courtyard. The CFO was joined by families of the fallen firefighters, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, Florida Legislators, local elected officials, and members of the Florida fire service community.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the filing of SB 1740 by Senator Ileana Garcia, which creates the Florida Freedom Fighters Fund. The fund would provide up to $5 million in financial support to Florida residents running for President who face legal, partisan, political attacks by the Department of Justice or State Attorneys.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that 117 banks in Florida signed the attestation agreeing not to politically discriminate, thereby designating as Qualified Public Depositories (QPD), which are banks who are legally allowed to accept public dollars which include state or local government funds. This follows the signing of House Bill 3 into law last year which works to prevent the qualification of a bank as a QPD, if they are engaged in any “unsafe and unsound practices” of canceling its services based on personal beliefs whether it be political, religious or any other factor that shows impartiality. QPDs will have to certify that they are in total compliance with the requirements of the bill. To view a full listing of QPDs, click HERE. Additionally, to submit a complaint, click HERE.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for January 18, 2024

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement in support of Senate Bill 460 by Senator Corey Simon. This legislation among many things would recruit students to trades, such as construction and would lower the age requirements for those who wish to work in construction-type jobs. The Bill was reported favorable by the Florida Senate’s Pre-K-12 Education committee on Wednesday.

Following the impacts of the powerful storm and tornados that hit the Florida Panhandle last week, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is urging Bay County residents to visit the Department of Financial Services (DFS) Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) where consumers can connect with team members from the DFS Division of Consumer Services and receive assistance on their insurance claims. Storm victims can find additional resources at PrepareFL.com which serves as a one-stop-shop for disaster information and resources to help Floridians recover quickly following a storm. CFO Patronis is also warning consumers to beware of contractors asking for cash for repairs and always require contractors to show proof of insurance prior to beginning the job.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for January 16, 2024

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is warning consumers to beware of purchasing Amazon’s lithium-ion replacement battery packs for Dyson vacuum cleaners. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Zautnkn.Inc lithium-ion replacement battery packs, which are sold on Amazon, pose a risk of fire to consumers. The ZAUTNKN.INC batteries are not a Dyson or Dyson-authorized product and there has been reports of three fires associated with these batteries. A few weeks ago, the CFO announced the filing of a priority bill, House Bill 989 and Senate Bill 1098, which establishes safety standards to prevent lithium-ion battery fires and other issues with energy storage systems.

Today, CFO and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis traveled to Panama City to survey damage from the severe weather event and help coordinate response efforts. The CFO participated in a press conference with Bay County officials where they discussed post-storm damage. The following is a transcript of his remarks.

Today, CFO and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis reminds Floridians of the importance of using gas-powered generators safely during and after the severe weather event that’s making its way across the Florida Panhandle.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is urging Floridians to make preparations to homes and property ahead of the severe weather event that is expected to bring damaging winds, possible tornadoes and coastal flooding to the Florida Panhandle, Nature Coast and Northeast Florida, starting as early as tonight. Floridians are encouraged to follow the tips below and visit PrepareFL.com to plan accordingly for the impending storm.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced his support of the filing of Senate Bill 1030 and House Bill 1001 that will provide counties with the authority to provide tax breaks for small local businesses by allowing local governments to forgo the collection of their business rent taxes. The proposed legislation would give small businesses additional tax relief and allow local governments to exercise better fiscal responsibility of taxpayer dollars.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $33 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of December. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.2 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is urging Floridians to take advantage of the 2023-2024 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, which began Monday, January 1, 2024, and ends on Sunday, January 14, 2024.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis highlights the 2023 accomplishments of the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS).

In recognition of December as Identity Theft Prevention Month, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is providing Floridians with tips on how to best avoid becoming a victim of identity theft during this holiday season. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reports 2.4 million reports of identity theft in 2022 alone with estimated losses totaling $8.8 billion.

In recognition of December as Identity Theft Prevention Month, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is providing Floridians with tips on how to best avoid becoming a victim of identity theft during this holiday season. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reports 2.4 million reports of identity theft in 2022 alone with estimated losses totaling $8.8 billion.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a special holiday message urging Floridians to stay safe and to cherish the season of giving with friends and family. Also, the CFO acknowledged America’s men and women in uniform and first responders who protect our communities and our country at home and abroad.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced his support for the Department of Financial Services (DFS) Agency Bill that was filed this week and classifies virtual currency, most commonly known as cryptocurrency, as unclaimed property under the law if unclaimed within 5 years.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced his support of the DFS Agency Legislation that was filed today. The legislation will authorize the State Fire Marshal’s office, which the CFO oversees, to create rules and regulations to prevent fires caused by lithium-ion batteries commonly found in electronic vehicles (EVs) such as scooters, hoverboards, golf carts, and battery-powered cars.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: REAL AMERICA’S VOICE: JIMMY PATRONIS ON FLORIDA MAN LEGAL DEFENSE

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the filing of HB 939, a Consumer Protection bill that, among other items, bars state agencies from contracting with censorship companies like NewsGuard, which is a self-described media monitoring, technology company. The Legislation mimics that of proposed federal legislation aimed at prohibiting the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) from using the NewsGuard tool to blacklist publications.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted the 2023 State Debt Report and key economic data that shows Florida’s prudent debt management has improved the economic outlook of the state’s economy.

At a time when everything, including insurance, seems to cost more money, and the state of Florida is in the midst of a property insurance crisis, Patronis said he’s asking the Florida Legislature for $5.5 million to increase the Consumer Services Division’s size so it can provide more face-to-face assistance for insurance needs of all kinds.

Last night, during the Israel Bonds Prime Minister’s Circle Gala in Boca Raton, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the State Board of Administration (SBA) has purchased another $25 million in Israel bonds. This additional bond purchase brings the SBA’s total Israel Bond investment to approximately $60 million, with the Florida Treasury currently investing a record $200 million. The SBA is overseen by the Florida Cabinet, while the State Treasury is managed by the CFO through the Florida Department of Financial Services. The CFO was also honored with the prestigious Israel Bond Award at the event for his leadership and support for the Jewish community and the State of Israel. The Israel Bond Award is considered to be among one of the most important awards given by Israel Bonds.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis provided information and resources for Florida residents impacted by the Gulf low weather event that caused torrential rain and flooding in the Big Bend and the Nature Coast over the weekend. The CFO provided information for residents with coverage through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and who might be affected by flood damage. Managed by FEMA, NFIP offers flood insurance to help mitigate the impact of flooding on businesses, property owners, and renters. For individuals who have flood insurance policies through FEMA and its federal flood insurance program, the CFO encourages consumers to contact their insurance agents for more information about filing a claim. Consumers may also reach FEMA directly at 1-800-621-3362.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement showing support for House Bill 835 and Senate Bill 890 that expands the Florida Home Hardening Initiative passed in the 2022 Legislative Session. This legislation establishes a two-year sales tax exemption on the retail sales of items like impact-resistant windows, doors, and garage doors. This legislation will expand the program, which ends in June 2024, to June 2026. Overall the Florida Home Hardening program has saved homeowners an estimated $495 million since July 2022.

ORLANDO, Fla. – Today, during the Florida Chamber Insurance Summit in Orlando, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced plans to bolster the service provide by the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS), Division of Insurance Consumer Services in the 2024 Legislative Session. Included in the 2024 DFS agency budget request is approximately $5.5 million to strengthen the Division through increased staffing, field offices, and training to better serve Florida insurance consumers and short-circuit claims issues before they escalate, especially following disasters.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued safety and fire prevention tips for holiday gifts that rely on the use of lithium-ion batteries. Reports indicate that lithium-ion battery fires have increased in 2023, and CFO Patronis is urging Floridians to buy products with certified batteries that are up to national safety standards. The UL Fire Safety Research Institute is educating the public on battery safety with their new initiative “Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety.”

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $31 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of November. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.2 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released a statement following Governor Ron DeSantis’ 2024-25 Focus on Florida’s Future budget recommendations.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis hosted a Christmas tree burn demonstration with the Tallahassee Fire Department and urged Floridians to know the potential dangers of Christmas trees and holiday decorations. If not maintained and properly removed, trees can become dry and easily ignite. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), almost two in five home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems. Between 2017-2021, U.S. fire departments responded to an average 150 home fires due to burning Christmas trees. Reports say, these fires cause an annual average of 4 civilian deaths, 33 civilian injuries, and $14 million in property damage and Christmas lights are the primary cause of these fires 40 percent of the time.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to Boo Corrigan, Chairman of the College Football Playoff committee requesting voting records of all 13 CFP Committee members. The letter comes after the historic and unprecedented decision to leave the undefeated, ACC Champion Florida State University football team out of the four team College Football Playoff.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of independent contractor Ricky McGraw, owner of SFR Services (SFR), for his alleged involvement in intentionally inflating and overbilling a roof replacement claim to defraud Tower Hill Insurance Company (Tower Hill) out of more than $214,000. McGraw was booked into Lee County jail on charges of Insurance Fraud and Grand Theft, both first-degree felonies.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a proclamation honoring Mike Norvell on his undefeated regular season and being awarded the ACC Coach of the Year.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement honoring and memorializing the life of former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor who passed away at the age 93. Sandra Day O’Connor was nominated by former President Ronald Reagan on August 19, 1981, and served until her retirement on January 31, 2006. Justice O’Connor made history as the first woman appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Paul Vautour, former Vice-President of Sales for Castle Roofing Company (Castle) and three other employees including Kiana Vatour, Robert Lusk Sr., and Robert Lusk Jr. for their alleged involvement in intentionally and schematically causing damage to homeowner’s roofs to file fraudulent property insurance claims to Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens).

Today, as Floridians across the state face the possibility of freezing cold temperatures tonight, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis offers fire safety precautions to take when families use their space heaters, wood burning stoves and fireplaces. According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), heating is the second leading cause of U.S. home fires, deaths and injuries and December, January and February are the peak months for heating fires.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis launched the Holiday Money Hunt and is encouraging Floridians to spread the word and search to see if you or your business has Unclaimed Property that has been unknown or lost and ready to recover. Currently, Florida has unclaimed property accounts with a total value of $2.9 billion. CFO Patronis is on a mission to celebrate the holidays and return every last cent back to its rightful owners. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.2 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens. For b-roll video of the Florida unclaimed property vault and a selection of unclaimed items, please click here.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is warning consumers to beware of potential scams surrounding Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Giving Tuesday as Floridians begin their search for holiday shopping deals and offers. CFO offers four tips to avoid becoming a victim of fraud or identity theft this year, as consumers are expected to spend a total of $130 billion during the period from Thanksgiving Day to Cyber Monday. In 2022, American’s donated over $3.1 billion in 24 hours to charitable causes during Giving Tuesday.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is encouraging Floridians to incorporate the following safety tips when frying a turkey this Thanksgiving. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment. Additionally, the NFPA recommends you test your smoke alarm at least once a month and replace all smoke alarms in your home every 10 years.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis released a statement honoring Florida’s fallen firefighters following the memorial event at the Florida State Fire College in Ocala. There were 16 fallen firefighters recognized during the Florida Fallen Firefighter Memorial at the Fire College. Additionally, CFO & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis addressed the families of the fallen firefighters and the fire service community at the Fallen Firefighter Memorial Parade in downtown Ocala Thursday night.

For the good of all college athletes, it’s time for the NCAA to move on from Charlie Baker, find a new President, and reform their association to meet today’s challenges head-on. Under Baker, the NCAA is out of touch and clinging to its last string of relevance in a rapidly changing national collegiate sports landscape. The time is now to find new leadership who will revamp the NCAA and usher in a new era of college athletics.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis provided important information and resources for South Florida residents impacted by torrential rain and hurricane-force winds. The CFO provided information for residents with coverage through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and who might be affected by flood damage. Managed by FEMA, NFIP offers flood insurance to help mitigate the impact of flooding on businesses, property owners, and renters. For individuals who have flood insurance policies through FEMA and its federal flood insurance program, the CFO encourages consumers to contact their insurance agents for more information about filing a claim. Consumers may also reach FEMA directly at 1-800-621-3362.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a letter to Speaker Johnson urging him to delay implementation and stop the IRS from issuing Form 1099-Ks through third-party cash apps, such as PayPal, Venmo and Cash App. After the first of January, consumers will be required to file a Form 1099-K to the IRS if they make a transaction of $600 on a third-party payment platform.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released the following statement ahead of Veterans Day. To watch and download the video message click here.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis warns Floridians of the threat of fake social media accounts on platforms such as X, Facebook and Instagram that impersonate real business accounts in order to steal your personal information.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauded the Legislature on the passage of additional $176 million in funding for the My Safe Florida Home Program during Special Session. The program, administered by the Florida Department of Financial Services, provides funding for free home inspections and matches funding for home enhancements to harden homes against storms in an effort to reduce insurance premiums.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $36 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of October. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.2 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

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.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Florida insurance agent Naser Al-Sweity, who allegedly misappropriated more than $131,000 in premium funds from several insurance consumers, resulting in the cancellation of coverage and leaving one policyholder on the hook for $1 million in repairs following Hurricane Ian.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the Florida Treasury will invest an additional $120 million in Israel bonds. The announcement comes following terrorist attacks in Israel on October 7 and further highlights and strengthens the relationship between Florida and Israel. After a recent purchase of $25 million in Israel Bonds, this additional bond purchase brings Florida’s total current investment in Israel bonds to $200 million, the largest total ever held at one time by the Florida Treasury. Under CFO Patronis’ direction since 2017, the Florida Treasury has now purchased $310 million in Israel bonds to diversify the state’s investment portfolio as part of a long-range investment strategy that has generated approximately $6.4 million in interest from these investments.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a letter to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) demanding that the FCC immediately halt any further utilization of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. The letter comes following the October 4th national alert when the FCC decided to use their platform and send out a nationwide emergency test text message on all cell phones, wireless devices, TVs and radios.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis shared an important fire safety message to encourage Floridians to take precautions and protect against potential fire-related accidents this Halloween. According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), decorations catch fire first in approximately 800 reported home fires each year, and more than one-third of these fires are started by candles.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis recognizes the month of October as Cyber Security Awareness Month and offers cyber security tips to keep you, your family, and your business safe from potential scam artists, hackers and fraud.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis submitted a public records request to National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) President Charlie Baker for all records regarding the NCAA’s transfer waiver process for University of North Carolina (UNC) Wide Receiver Tez Walker and Florida State University (FSU) Defensive Tackle Darrell Jackson. Recently, the NCAA made the decision to overturn the waiver denial of UNC Wide Receiver Tez Walker.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of three licensed insurance agents in Miami-Dade County identified as Alexander Faneites, Nicolas Giraldo Gutierrez, and Yanet Hernandez Suarez for allegedly submitting fraudulent life insurance policy applications to collect commission monies paid for each new policy. In total, more than $38,000 was taken in fraudulent commission payouts.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement on the upcoming special session that will, among other items, address funding for the My Safe Florida Home Program. The program provides funding for free home inspections and match funding for home enhancements to harden homes against storms in an effort to reduce insurance premiums.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis highlighted October as Fire Prevention Month. The CFO urges fire safety, especially around the holidays, and encourages Floridians to ensure they have a plan in the case of a fire emergency at home.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis warns Floridians of the threat of online crowdfunding scams related to the heinous terrorist attacks in Israel and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

NAPLES, Fla. – Today, during his IRS Roundtable in Naples, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis was joined by U.S. Senator Rick Scott to announce proposed legislation to identify state vendors who provide Artificial Intelligence (AI) services to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a means to fight back against the use of these technologies being corrupted by the IRS. According to media reports, the IRS has started using AI to investigate taxpayers.

Tallahassee, Fla. – In the aftermath of the terrorist attack against Israel and the runup to the weekend, today Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis pledged law enforcement resources to state and local law enforcement agencies in Florida.

TAMPA, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis hosted a press conference at the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa to award a check for $149,000 in unclaimed property to Moffitt Cancer Center and highlight October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The CFO highlighted his wife Katie Patronis’ five-year anniversary of her battle with breast cancer and encouraged Floridians to get screened. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.1 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens and businesses.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the Florida Treasury will invest an additional $25 million in Israel bonds. The announcement comes following terrorist attacks in Israel this week and further highlights and strengthens the relationship between Florida and Israel. This bond purchase brings Florida’s total current investment in Israel bonds to $80 million, the largest total ever held at one time by the State of Florida. Under CFO Patronis’ direction since 2017, the Florida Treasury has now purchased $190 million in Israel bonds to diversify the state’s investment portfolio as part of a long-range investment strategy and has generated approximately $6.4 million in interest from these investments.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a proclamation in support of the Nation of Israel following the terrorist attacks this past Saturday, October 7th. The proclamation was delivered to the Chabad Lubavitch of the Panhandle and FSU during the dedication of the new Chabad House.

Tallahassee, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement applauding Governor Ron DeSantis’ proposal supporting Israel and sanctioning Iran.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement advocating for the NCAA to reverse course on Florida State University Defensive Tackle Darrell Jackson’s hardship waiver and make him eligible to play immediately due to recent reports that the NCAA granted eligibility to University of North Carolina Wide Receiver Tez Walker. The CFO posted about this decision earlier this morning on X.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $40 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of September. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.1 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that recent Hurricane Ian insurance villages in Southwest Florida issued nearly $7.5 million for policyholders in insurance claims checks. Last week, approximately 15 insurance companies, including representatives from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), the Florida Department of Business Regulation (DBPR), and the Florida Association of Public Adjusters, were on hand at three insurance villages in Punta Gorda and Ft. Myers to assist more than 400 southwest Florida consumers impacted by Hurricane Ian.

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Angela Augustine, an insurance claims adjuster, for allegedly conducting an $11.6 million automobile insurance fraud scheme. Using access to auto insurance claims, Augustine allegedly reopened numerous claims and issued settlement checks to approximately 326 alleged co-conspirators.

DORAL, Fla. – Hoy, durante su Mesa redonda sobre el IRS en Doral, el Oficial principal de finanzas de la Florida (CFO por sus siglas en inglés) Jimmy Patronis criticó los informes del Servicio de Impuestos Internos (IRS por sus siglas en inglés) apuntando a los fanáticos de Taylor Swift que vendieron boletos por más de $600. La nueva ley requerirá que las plataformas de venta de boletos le den al IRS información personal sobre los usuarios que vendieron boletos.

DORAL, Fla. – Today, during his IRS Roundtable in Doral, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis panned reports of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) targeting Taylor Swift fans who sold tickets for more than $600. The new law will require ticketing platforms to give the IRS personal information on users who sold tickets.

DORAL, Fla. – Today, during his IRS Roundtable in Doral, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis panned reports of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) targeting Taylor Swift fans who sold tickets for more than $600. The new law will require ticketing platforms to give the IRS personal information on users who sold tickets.

Authorities arrested two licensed insurance adjusters, one unlicensed insurance adjuster and a mold contractor on multiple felony charges after investigators said they worked together to defraud a 94-year-old Miami Gardens woman and Citizens Insurance.

MIAMI, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of four subjects, identified as two licensed public adjusters, one individual posing as a public adjuster, and one mold remediation company owner, for allegedly filing multiple fraudulent insurance claims with Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (CITIZENS) to attempt to defraud a 94-year-old homeowner out of more than $57,000.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Today, during his IRS Roundtable in West Palm Beach, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a letter to Venmo, PayPal, Cash App and Zelle demanding that they cease all operations to build technologies taxing Floridians from their small dollar transactions and that they public release all communications between their apps and the federal government.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a proclamation highlighting National Truck Driver Appreciation Week and acknowledging the contributions American truckers make towards our national and state economy. Trucking careers serve as one out of every 19 jobs in the state of Florida, with more than 390,000 Floridians employed in the trucking industry. Florida’s truckers are vital to state commerce and ensuring that Floridians receive the goods and services they need to live or start and grow a business.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $32 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of August. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.1 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $32 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of August. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2.1 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the victory in a potential class-action lawsuit, which sought to cast the state’s unclaimed property system as an unconstitutional taking. The lawsuit alleged that the state should pay interest or other compensation to claimants in addition to any unclaimed funds claimants are entitled to under state law. Since the CFO took office in 2017, more than $2 billion has been returned in unclaimed property to Florida citizens.

PERRY, Fla. – Following the impacts of Hurricane Idalia, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis activated and deployed his Disaster Fraud Action Strike Team (DFAST) to protect Florida residents and businesses from fraud. The DFAST deployment consists of three teams comprised of 23 personnel, including insurance fraud and workers’ compensation fraud detectives.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis provided important information and resources for those who have coverage through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and who might be affected by flood damage from Hurricane Idalia. Managed by FEMA, NFIP offers flood insurance to help mitigate the impact of flooding on businesses, property owners, and renters.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is urging Floridians to take photo evidence of their home before Tropical Storm Idalia makes landfall so that homeowners have the materials and proof they need to make an effective insurance claim after the storm. Tropical Storm Idalia is expected to intensify into a major hurricane, bringing with it dangerous conditions for storm surge along Florida’s Gulf Coast, and is expected to make landfall on Wednesday. Visit PrepareFL.com for storm-related resources and information.

Today, CFO and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis reminds Floridians of the importance of using gas-powered generators safely ahead of Hurricane Idalia.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis and the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) provided new updates on Department activities regarding Hurricane Idalia.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is reminding owners of Electric Vehicles (EVs), and other lithium ion powered devices, to relocate their devices away from areas that may be impacted by storm surge.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is urging Floridians to take the necessary precautions to prepare their homes and property ahead of the tropical depression forming in the Gulf of Mexico. The tropical depression could strengthen into a tropical storm and bring heavy rain and damaging winds to Florida’s Gulf Coast on Tuesday or Wednesday of next week.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the Florida Unclaimed Property Auction this weekend in Orlando, with the auction preview beginning on Friday, August 25 at 9 AM EST and the auction beginning on Saturday, August 26 at 9 AM EST. The auction will be held live and in-person at the Holiday Inn & Suites Across from Universal Orlando at 5916 Caravan Ct Orlando, FL 32819. For more information about the auction and items available, click here. For B-Roll video of the Florida unclaimed property vault and examples of unclaimed items, please click here.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the Florida Unclaimed Property Auction this weekend in Orlando, with the auction preview beginning on Friday, August 25 at 9 AM EST and the auction beginning on Saturday, August 26 at 9 AM EST. The auction will be held live and in-person at the Holiday Inn & Suites Across from Universal Orlando at 5916 Caravan Ct Orlando, FL 32819. For more information about the auction and items available, click here. For B-Roll video of the Florida unclaimed property vault and examples of unclaimed items, please click here.

To stabilize the market, Gov. Ron DeSantis called two special sessions focused on insurance, and significant reforms were enacted to rein in abuses of the system that drove up premiums — and we can already see the benefits. I can’t begin to underscore how meaningful these reforms were.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) President Charlie Baker asking the NCAA to reopen Florida State University (FSU) Defensive Tackle Darrell Jackson, Jr.’s hardship waiver request and make him eligible to play immediately. The NCAA denied Jackson's hardship waiver after the football player transferred from the University of Miami to FSU to be closer to his ailing mother.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis presented over $50K in cancer decontamination equipment funding to three fire departments in West Palm Beach.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to Illinois businesses outlining the dangers of a recent law passed by the State of Illinois to remove cash bail requirements.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of David Alexander Jr. Caballero, an All Lines Public Adjuster of No Stress Claims, Alexander Castellanos, a former All Lines Adjuster and owner of Prestige Restoration & Renovation Inc., and homeowner Jennifer Ann Perez for conspiring to defraud Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens) of more than $136,000 by allegedly submitting fraudulent insurance claims related to the homeowner's air conditioner, water roof leak and tarp installation.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $33 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of July. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to JP Morgan Chase (Chase) requesting more information regarding recent reports that a Florida-based business named Mercola Market, had their Chase accounts suddenly terminated without explanation. Dr. Joseph Mercola, owner of Mercola Market recently outlined the situation in a recent tweet saying there was no reason given for the termination of the accounts. In his book, Dr. Mercola was critical of COVID-19 vaccines and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), leading some to question if his business was targeted because of his opinions or political beliefs.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the Florida Division of Treasury earned more than $1.1 billion in earnings during the 2022-23 Fiscal Year, a new state record. The Division of Treasury’s top priority is to protect taxpayer dollars, while being effective stewards of the operational monies and financial assets. The Florida Department of Financial Services manages approximately $60 billion in taxpayer money. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, the Division of Treasury has earned nearly $4 billion in earnings.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement regarding Governor DeSantis’ communication to the State Board of Administration (SBA) requesting an investigation into Anheuser-Busch InBev on how their conduct resulting in a precipitous “decline” may have affected the state’s retirement holdings.

MIAMI, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Hector Gutierrez-Morales, owner of HG & AKE Construction Corporation, for Workers' Compensation Premium Fraud, Application Fraud, and Organized Scheme to Defraud for allegedly concealing company payroll amounts to avoid higher premiums for required workers’ compensation insurance coverage.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is urging Floridians to take advantage of the 2023 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, which begins Monday, July 24, 2023 and ends on Sunday, August 6, 2023.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement on a recent report by CNBC on the 10 states who are running America’s best economies for residents. The report ranks Florida as the top economy in the country and outlines how the Sunshine State’s economy is white hot and overall growth is among the strongest in the nation.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that one of the Department of Financial Services’ Division of Investigative Services (DIFS) Lieutenant’s was responsible for apprehending an alleged kidnapper in Jacksonville, Florida on July 14, 2023.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the launch of the Florida IRS Transparency Portal. The online portal was created for individuals, private businesses, or non-profits to report evidence of discrimination by Internal Revenue Service (IRS) operatives and will help Florida identify patterns of discrimination where specific IRS agents are targeting certain political causes, practices, or beliefs. Florida residents and businesses can report harassment by IRS agents by visiting www.myfloridacfo.com/irs-activity/. The CFO made the announcement in Orlando at Ally Building Solutions during a roundtable discussion regarding the IRS’s harassment of taxpayers and their shakedown of Florida.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement on news that according media reports, Farmers Insurance is planning to shutdown 30 percent of its business in Florida, impacting 100,000 policyholders.

Jewish Insider: “Morningstar removes controversy tags on 19 companies doing business in Israel and West Bank”

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is warning all Floridians to beware of a Tax Refund Scam that is being reported by the IRS. The scam comes in the form of fraudsters gaining access to the victim personal information, by sending them a letter claiming that they are owed a rebate. The letter claims to be from the IRS and comes as the last chance to file a claim on your 2019 tax returns ends on July 17, 2023.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $31 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of June. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $31 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of June. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is highlighting Fourth of July safety tips as a reminder to be safe while celebrating America’s birthday with friends and family. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that more than 19,500 reported fires are started by fireworks annually and children between the ages of 10-14 years old saw the highest rate of fireworks injuries.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis was joined by members of the Urban Search & Rescue (US&R) Florida Task Force 6 to urge Floridians to prepare now before the next hurricane takes aim at Florida.

Today, the Department of Financial Services (DFS) announced that the Division of Consumer Services will be hosting Insurance Villages on June 27th in Fort Myers and June 28th and June 29th in Punta Gorda. The villages will serve as an opportunity for policyholders to meet with their property insurer in-person and work together to resolve outstanding claims. Representatives from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and more than a dozen insurers are expected to be on hand to assist insurance consumers.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released the following statement ahead of the two-year anniversary of the tragic Surfside condo collapse this Saturday, June 24, 2023.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauds Governor Ron DeSantis signing of House Bill 121, Florida KidCare, by Senator Calatayud, Representative Bartleman, and Representative Trabulsy. House Bill 121 expands eligibility for Florida Kidcare, the state-supported health insurance for children.

FORT PIERCE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Nancy Salomon in St. Lucie County for a False and Fraudulent Insurance Claim for her alleged involvement in a scheme to defraud her home insurance company out of more than $25,000 in insurance proceeds.

ORLANDO, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis spoke at the the 95th Annual Florida Future Farms of America (FFA) Convention in Orlando, Florida.

The war over "Woke" - CFO Jimmy Patronis on Squawk Box

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauded Governor Ron DeSantis’ signing of Florida’s 2023 Framework for Freedom Budget. The Department of Financial Services (DFS) requested and received critical funding including $1.3 million to support investigative efforts to fight insurance fraud and approximately $6 million to support the state fire college and arson lab to assist the next generation of Florida firefighters.

ORLANDO, Fla. - Hoy, el Oficial principal de finanzas (CFO por sus siglas en inglés) and Jefe de bomberos Jimmy Patronis organizó una conferencia de prensa en Orlando con Grupo de trabajo 4 de búsqueda y rescate urbano (US&R por sus siglas en inglés) para instar a los floridanos a prepararse para los desastres ahora antes de que el próximo huracán apunte a Florida. Hay un total de ocho equipos de US&R en todo el estado que se despliegan inmediatamente para ayudar a las comunidades que han sido afectadas por un desastre natural o provocado por el hombre.

ORLANDO, Fla. - Hoy, el Oficial principal de finanzas (CFO por sus siglas en inglés) and Jefe de bomberos Jimmy Patronis organizó una conferencia de prensa en Orlando con Grupo de trabajo 4 de búsqueda y rescate urbano (US&R por sus siglas en inglés) para instar a los floridanos a prepararse para los desastres ahora antes de que el próximo huracán apunte a Florida. Hay un total de ocho equipos de US&R en todo el estado que se despliegan inmediatamente para ayudar a las comunidades que han sido afectadas por un desastre natural o provocado por el hombre.

ORLANDO, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis hosted a press conference in Orlando with Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Task Force 4 to urge Floridians to prepare for disasters now before the next hurricane takes aim at Florida. There are a total of eight US&R teams statewide that are immediately deployed to aid communities that have been impacted by a natural or man-made disaster.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement applauding Governor Ron DeSantis for signing Senate Bill 262, Technology Transparency, by Senator Jennifer Bradley and Representative Fiona McFarland.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $31 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of May. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $2 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

As the 2023 Hurricane Season begins today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlights “Prepare Florida,” a disaster preparedness initiative to encourage Floridians to prepare now before a hurricane makes landfall. CFO Patronis’ PrepareFL.com website serves as a one-stop-shop for disaster preparedness information and resources to help Floridians ensure they are prepared to weather the next storm. The CFO also encourages Floridians to consider hardening their home with storm resistant products through the My Safe Florida Home mitigation inspection and grant program. By hardening your home, homeowners can protect their home and save money on insurance premiums through mandatory discounts.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauds Governor DeSantis for signing House Bill 881, My Safe Florida Home Program, by Senator Jim Boyd and Representative Chip LaMarca into law. This legislation will expand eligibility requirements so more Floridians can protect their homes against storms and reduce insurance premiums.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauds Governor Ron DeSantis for signing Senate Bill 7052, Insurer Accountability. The legislation delivers more funding to improve the consumer helpline and mediation services provided by the Department of Financial Services (DFS).

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Kiyuana Pasley on one count of Organized Fraud, 11 counts of Insurance Fraud, and 11 counts of Grand Theft.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauds Governor DeSantis for signing Senate Bill 1002, Motor Vehicle Glass, by Senator Linda Stewart and Representative Griff Griffitts in the Florida House.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is reminding Floridians to use the following safety tips for a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day. A record 42 million Americans are expected to travel during the Memorial Day weekend, with many making their way to the Sunshine State.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauds Governor Ron DeSantis for signing House Bill 487, Department of Financial Services, by Senator Nick DeCiglie and Representative Michelle Salzman.

With the 2023 Hurricane Season starting on June 1, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is urging Floridians to use the 2023 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday to save money while stocking up on hurricane supplies.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following Governor Ron DeSantis signing Senate Bill 306 into law.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement upon Governor Ron DeSantis signing House Bill 1185 into law.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released a statement following a meeting of the Florida Cabinet where the Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) received approval to notice proposed rulemaking related to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) policies by financial institutions, loan providers, and money transmitters.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a proclamation recognizing the week of May 22-26 as Contractor Fraud Awareness Week, in partnership with the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). This year’s theme for the anti-fraud recognition week is “If you didn’t request it, reject it!”

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Jon Roa-Fontaine on two counts of Insurance Fraud, two counts of Grand Theft, one count of Organized Fraud, and one count of Uttering a Fraudulent Instrument.

MARIA BARTIROMO (FOX BIZ): Let’s talk about what’s going on there with Disney. Disney officially calling off plans for its $20 million Florida development. It would’ve brought more than 2,000 high-paying jobs to the state Jimmy, are you disappointed?

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis issued a proclamation in honor of the grand opening of Suzuki Motor Marine USA Technical Center in Panama City.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released a video encouraging all Chicago businesses to move to Florida.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is warning Floridians to stay alert and beware of Facebook Marketplace scams. With social media becoming a popular place to buy and sell used items, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is offering tips on how best to avoid Facebook Marketplace scams. Additionally, the Federal Trade Commission states that nine out of ten victims of online shopping fraud claim to be defrauded using Facebook or Instagram in 2021.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that a record breaking $2 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Floridians since he took office in 2017.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauded Governor Ron DeSantis for signing SB 7054, which defines “Central Bank Digital Currency,” and prohibits its use as money within Florida’s Uniform Commercial Code (UCC).

Tallahassee, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement upon Governor Ron DeSantis signing of SB 214 into law. The Legislation bans financial institutions from generating reports for the purchase of arms, and ammunition, sales for arms dealers. The information report could be used to target Americans and businesses who legally purchase, and sell, firearms and ammunition.

Jimmy Patronis has a message for banks holding $36 billion in Florida’s cash: Drop the corporate activism or get out.

MIAMI, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Yoel Sainz Fraga on charges of Exploitation of the Elderly, Insurance Fraud, and Grand Theft for allegedly attempting to defraud an elderly homeowner in a $13,000 property insurance fraud scheme. Fraga is a licensed Public Adjuster and the Owner/President of 305 Public Adjuster Corporation.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is warning Florida consumers to stay alert and beware of scams this Mother’s Day weekend.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis attended a celebration with Israeli Consul General Maor Elbaz-Starinsky and presented a proclamation to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of Israel’s Independence.

During National Arson Awareness Week, recognized May 7-13, 2023, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis calls on all Floridians to report suspicious activity and be on the lookout for those who attempt to commit arson-related crimes.

Ft. Myers, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Eric Harris on charges of Worker's Compensation Fraud and Unlicensed Contracting During a State of Emergency for allegedly contracting to conduct home repairs without the required state licensure and insurance coverage.

Hoy, el director financiero (CFO) Jimmy Patronis ofreció una conferencia de prensa en PGT Innovations, un fabricante de productos de construcción resistentes a impactos con sede en Florida.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis hosted a press conference at PGT Innovations, a Florida-based manufacturer of impact-resistant building product. The CFO highlighted the Home Hardening Tax Exemption Initiative, the expansion of the My Safe Florida Home Program and the newly passed Insurer Accountability legislation.

MIAMI, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauded Governor Ron DeSantis for signing House Bill 379, which prohibits the access of certain social media applications, such as TikTok on public school devices for K-12 classrooms. This year, the CFO advocated for a ban on TikTok from Florida’s K-12 schools and Universities.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a demand letter to nearly 90 elected officials and organizations who received campaign donations from FTX, following their collapse. The CFO is encouraging these individuals and organizations not to hide behind the bankruptcy process and return the money if they have not already done so. If effort is not taken, the CFO’s office will begin the process of considering all available legal actions and remedies to hold these elected officials and organizations as well as FTX accountable.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted his 2023 “Keep Florida Free” Legislative Victories. The CFO’s top legislative victories this year included protecting taxpayer dollars from the cult of Environmental, Social, Governance policies or ESG, protecting data from Big Tech overreach, preventing fraud and protecting consumers through transparency, bolstering the department’s mediation services and consumer hotline to better aid policyholders, supporting first responders with funding and resources, and banning TikTok in Florida’s schools.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted Hurricane Preparedness Week during the 2023 Hurricane Awareness Tour with the National Weather Service (NOAA) at the Tallahassee International Airport. The event highlighted the capabilities of NOAA’s Hurricane Hunter Aircraft and raised awareness of the devastating impacts of hurricanes and severe weather. CFO Patronis’ PrepareFL.com website serves as a one-stop-shop for disaster preparedness information and resources to help Floridians ensure they are prepared to weather the next storm.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the passage of House Bill 1185, Consumer Protection, by Senator Nick DiCeglie and Representative Mike Giallombardo in the Florida House. HB 1185 will require important disclosures regarding solar panels at the time of sale to ensure consumers know what they are buying and how it can impact their property insurance costs. The legislation cracks down on scams on crowdfunding sites like GoFundMe by preventing fraud through transparency. Additionally, the legislation further protects insurance consumers by improving communication with public adjusters through contract requirements and ensuring the financial motives of public adjusters are in-line with the consumer.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the passage of House Bill 487, Department of Financial Services, by Senator Nick DiCeglie and Representative Michelle Salzman in the Florida House. The legislation will now move on to the Governor for signature. This legislation provides measures to allow for firefighters’ charitable donations by creating a Direct Support Organization (DSO) to support financial efforts to protect their communities and provide life-saving equipment and resources.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the passage of House Bill 379 which prohibits the access of certain social media applications, such as TikTok on public school devices for K-12 classrooms. This year, the CFO advocated for a ban on TikTok from Florida’s K-12 schools and Universities.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the passage of Senate Bill 7052, Insurer Accountability, by Senator Travis Hutson and Representative Wyman Duggan in the Florida House. The bill delivers more funding to improve the consumer helpline and mediation services provided by the Department of Financial Services (DFS).

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $31 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of April.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the passage of Senate Bill 214, Sales of Firearms and Ammunition, by Senator Danny Burgess and Representative John Snyder in the Florida House. This legislation will prohibit credit card companies from giving weapons and ammunition sales a specific code to identify their purchases. In September 2022, CFO Patronis promised to take action against credit card companies who target the 2nd Amendment.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the passage of Senate Bill 1002, Motor Vehicle Glass, by Senator Linda Stewart and Representative Griffitts in the Florida House. Senate Bill 1002 cracks down on Assignment of Benefits (AOBs) abuse within the automobile windshield repair and replacement industry to fight rising car insurance rates. This legislation will end the use of inducements or gift cards to unethically entice consumers and ensure that replacement windshields are recalibrated to original manufacture standards to ensure driver safety.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis joined Governor DeSantis, Speaker Paul Renner, Senator Erin Grall, and Representative Bob Rommel in Jacksonville to sign House Bill 3 which prohibits financial institutions from discriminating against consumers for their beliefs, barring the consideration of "ESG Credit Scores;” and permanently prohibiting SBA fund managers from considering ESG factors when investing the state's money.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis and 33 other State Financial Officers from 27 states expressed deep concerns in a letter to President Biden regarding a Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) rule to force Americans with good credit scores to pay more each month for their mortgages and crediting the additional payments to the loans of higher-risk borrowers.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the passage of House Bill 881. The legislation related to My Safe Florida Home Program, by Senator Jim Boyd and Representative Chip LaMarca, will now move on to the Governor for signature. HB 881 will expand eligibility requirements so more Floridians can protect their homes against storms and reduce insurance premiums.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT… The Florida Standard: Jimmy Patronis: “Dear Disney – Please Don’t Let The Magic Sparkle Die”

Following the impacts of powerful storms and tornados in the Florida Panhandle, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted important storm recovery resources. PrepareFL.com website serves as a one-stop-shop for disaster information and resources to help Floridians recover quickly following a storm. CFO Patronis also warned consumers to beware of contractors asking for cash for repairs and always require contractors to show proof of insurance prior to beginning the job.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for April 26, 2023

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for April 25, 2023

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Daniel Holmes on four counts of Arson and one count of Battery on a Firefighter/EMT for his alleged involvement in intentionally setting three fires inside the West Marion Hospital in Ocala.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is recognizing the week of April 24th – 28th as Military Saves Week and is encouraging Florida’s active military members and veterans to pay off debt and prepare for the future by creating an achievable savings plan. Military Saves Week is a week-long national effort to encourage the military community to strengthen their financial well-being.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for April 20, 2023

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the passage of Senate Bill 306 by Senator Jim Boyd and Representative Fred Hawkins in the Florida House of Representatives. This legislation will now move to the Governor’s desk. Senate Bill 306 creates the "Catalytic Converter Antitheft Act"; which addresses tampering with and theft of catalytic converters.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the recent Insurance Villages, which took place earlier this week from April 17 - April 19, issued more than $5.7 million for policyholders in insurance claims checks.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the passage of House Bill 3 by Senator Erin Grall and Representative Bob Rommel in the Florida Senate. The legislation will now move on to the Governor for signature. House Bill 3 prohibits financial institutions from discriminating against consumers for their beliefs, barring the consideration of "ESG Credit Scores;” and permanently prohibiting SBA fund managers from considering ESG factors when investing the state's money.

Home and business owners in Southwest Florida are still struggling to get claims checks from their insurance carriers following Hurricane Ian. That's why the Department of Financial Services is again providing an "insurance village " to try and speed up claims.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis activated his Disaster Fraud Action Strike Team (DFAST) which has been deployed to Broward County to protect Floridians from storm-related fraud following recent devastating flooding in the area.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis visited the Emergency Operations Center in Ft. Lauderdale to meet with local and state officials from the Department of Emergency Management (DEM) and the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) to discuss the recent flooding in Broward County.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis visited the Insurance Village in Fort Myers Beach to talk with policyholders and help consumers connect with their insurance carriers following Hurricane Ian last year.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for April 17, 2023

Today, the Department of Financial Services (DFS) announced that the Division of Consumer Services will be hosting Insurance Villages on Tuesday April 18th in Fort Myers Beach and Wednesday, April 19th in Punta Gorda.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrests of Leduc Obas and Rachelle Remy on charges of Scheme to Defraud and False or Fraudulent Insurance Claims for their alleged involvement in a scheme to defraud Edison insurance company out of more than $60,000 in homeowners insurance claim payments.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following Governor Ron DeSantis’ Executive Order declaring a state of emergency due to the severe flooding and rainfall in Broward County.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for April 13, 2023

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for April 12, 2023

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrests of Christi Olson, Leonel Aguiar, and Leonardo Alfonso on felony charges of Identity Theft, Organized Scheme to Defraud, Insurance Fraud, and Grand Theft for allegedly using a former dentist’s professional credentials to defraud insurance companies out of more than $1.3 million.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for April 11, 2023

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is warning Floridians to stay alert and beware of free public charging stations after recent reports of fraud. Consumers visiting airports, hotels and shopping centers and plugging their electronic devices into free public charging stations could become the next victims of a cybercrime. The term "Juice Jacking” has been coined by hackers as a way to use charging ports to install spyware and steal your data. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) also posted an alert on Twitter Thursday warning that scammers have discovered how to use public USB ports to infect devices with malware and monitoring software

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Damacio Green on one charge of Filing a False and Fraudulent Insurance Claim for his alleged involvement in a property insurance fraud scheme to defraud Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens) out of more than $300,000.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for April 10, 2023

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT… WSVN: State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis Visits Florida’s Task Force 1 Urban Search and Rescue Team

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for April 5, 2023

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis toured the Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Florida Task Force 1 Training Center where he assessed hurricane preparedness and discussed the importance of Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) teams.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is reminding Floridians to stay alert and beware of scams during the Easter holiday.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for April 4, 2023

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $32 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of February.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the passage of HB 379 by Representative Brad Yeager that requires Florida school districts to prohibit and prevent students from accessing social media platforms through the use of internet access provided by each district. Further, the bill calls for in-school instruction on social media safety and how best it can be utilized in personal and professional life.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for March 31, 2023

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Anita Jovic on charges of Organized Scheme to Defraud, Unlawful Use of a Two Way Communication Device, False and Fraudulent Insurance Claims, and Uttering a Forged Instrument for her alleged involvement in a $30,000 liability insurance fraud scheme.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a letter to the Norwegian Consulate General following reports that Norway’s Sovereign Wealth Fund is reviewing recommendations to add Israel to Norway’s excluded funds list.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the passage of House Bill 507 by Representative Toby Overdorf in the House Ways and Means Committee. Last year, the CFO announced he would work to pass legislation to fight back against the IRS from hiring 87,000 new personnel through an $80 billion appropriation of taxpayer money from the Inflation Reduction Act that President Biden signed into law last August. House Bill 507 comprises CFO Patronis’ four pillars to stop the IRS money grab and outlined HERE.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for March 29, 2023

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis delivered remarks to the Citizens Property Insurance Corp. Board of Governor’s meeting. The following is a transcript of the CFO’s remarks.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis addressed the Citizens Property Insurance Corp. Board of Governor’s meeting. At the meeting, the CFO announced he is designating Florida’s Insurance Consumer Advocate Tasha Carter as the Department’s Hurricane Ian Chief Recovery Director to help streamline Hurricane Ian claims. He also announced the Department will hold another insurance village in Southwest Florida in mid-April.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for March 28, 2023

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for March 27, 2023

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the passage of House Bill 3 by Representative Bob Rommel in the Florida House of Representatives. House Bill 3 prohibits financial institutions from discriminating against consumers for their beliefs, barring the consideration of "ESG Credit Scores;” and permanently prohibiting SBA fund managers from considering ESG factors when investing the state's money.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for March 24, 2023

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of John Sutton on charges including Filing a False and Fraudulent Insurance Claim, Grand Theft, Unlicensed Contracting, and Failure to Obtain Workers Compensation coverage for allegedly conducting an unlicensed roof replacement scheme to defraud homeowners out of more than $41,000 in insurance claims.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a proclamation ahead of Greek Independence Day on Saturday, March 25th, 2023. The proclamation highlights the strong ties between Greece, the United States, and the state of Florida.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released a proclamation in honor of the Palm Beach International Boat show and the impressive economic impacts the show has on Florida’s economy.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for March 23, 2023

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for March 22, 2023

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis inducted the 2023 officers and new members of the Florida Commission on the Status of Women (FCSW). The Commission was created over three decades ago by the Florida Legislature with the mission of raising awareness and celebrating the contributions and successes of women throughout the state. The CFO inducted the following 2023 officers: Chair Sophia Eccleston, Vice Chair Lori Day, Treasurer Rosie Paulsen, Secretary Claudia Medina Thomas, Member at large Jenna Persons-Mulicka, Member at large Maruchi Azorin, and Parliamentarian Belinda Keiser. The CFO also inducted the following new members: Melissa Stone, Maria Wells, Staci Sims, Kate English, Tina Vidal-Duart and Jennifer Collins. Additionally, the FCSW announced that they will be hosting statewide roundtable discussions to inform communities about the results of their recently conducted survey - The 2022 Voices of Women. The roundtables will occur in Jacksonville, Destin, Ocala, Orlando, Fort Myers and Miami and will provide women with an opportunity to share what matters most to them and highlight resources available through the Commission’s work on behalf of Florida’s women.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for March 21, 2023

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for March 20, 2023

PANAMA CITY, Fla. - Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on President Joe Biden’s veto of a bill that repealed a Department of Labor Rule facilitating the use of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards in pension fund investments.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for March 17, 2023

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for March 17, 2023

Today, the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) provided an update on the My Safe Florida Home (MSFH) program which was created in the 2022 Special Session on Insurance.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on Governor Ron DeSantis’ creation of a multi-state “alliance” to push back against ESG standards.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for March 15, 2023

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for March 14, 2023

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the passage of House Bill 3 by Representative Bob Rommel from the House State Affairs Committee. The legislation will now move to the House Floor. House Bill 3 prohibits financial institutions from discriminating against consumers for their beliefs, barring the consideration of "ESG Credit Scores;” and permanently prohibiting SBA fund managers from considering ESG factors when investing the state's money.

Senate Bill 246 – Florida Kidcare Program Eligibility (Senator Calatayud) – This legislation increases the income eligibility threshold for coverage under the Florida Kidcare program; enrollees under the program are based on a tiered system of uniform premiums and federal approval through a waiver or state plan amendment.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of John Sutton on charges including Filing a False and Fraudulent Insurance Claim, Grand Theft, Unlicensed Contracting, and Failure to Obtain Workers Compensation coverage for allegedly conducting an unlicensed roof replacement scheme to defraud homeowners out of more than $41,000 in insurance claims.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for March 9, 2023

PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA — He oversees a $114.8 billion budget. He has taken on the powerful ESG complex, the international “social credit score” mafia and the Deep State’s censorship organs – all while performing his duties to look out for the rights and due benefits of Floridians.

CFO Patronis Legislative Update for March 8, 2023

This legislation includes measures to eliminate one-way attorney fees and fee multipliers for all lines of insurance, modernizing Florida's "bad faith" law, and protecting small businesses from paying exorbitant damages.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is highlighting his 2023 “Keep Florida Free” Legislative Priorities. The CFO’s top priorities include protecting Floridians who are targeted by the IRS, protecting taxpayer dollars from the cult of Environmental, Social, Governance policies or ESG, preventing fraud through transparency by requiring GoFundMe and other crowdfunding sites to report account transactions, banning TikTok from Florida’s schools, and more.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $27 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of February. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.9 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) issued a letter to NewsGuard, an organization that according to their website provides “credibility ratings” on news and information to promote “safety” for “readers, brands and democracies.” In the letter, the CFO states that NewsGuard’s activities are in line with the same ESG practices the Florida Legislature is targeting for the upcoming legislative session which could result in the divestment or legislative scrutiny of NewGuard’s clients. Additionally, the CFO says that the organization appears to be part of larger effort to create social credit scores that result in “debanking” and “deplatforming” of private entities, and the CFO is prepared to leverage his office to protect Florida businesses that NewsGuard is targeting.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced his support of House Bill 1185 filed today to add required transparency measures in Florida law to protect Floridians from crowdfunding charity scams from companies like GoFundMe.

Florida’s CFO Jimmy Patronis told Breitbart News he’s looking to give the best “return on investment” for Floridians and the Sunshine State instead of focusing on pushing a political agenda in investing such as environmental, social, and governance (ESG) policies.

DAYTONA, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced that members of his Division of Investigative and Forensic Services’ (DIFS) Bomb Squad Team were deployed to Daytona to help ensure safety during the Daytona 500 this weekend. The DIFS’ Bomb Squad consists of 13 Certified Bomb Technicians and three Apprentices. DIFS also has explosive detection K-9s that have been deployed in support of the race.

TALLAHASSEE, FL. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauded Governor Ron DeSantis’ announcement of his “Digital Bill of Rights”, proposed legislation to protect Floridians from big tech overreach and unfair censorship. The proposed legislation also includes measures to combat digital threats from the Communist Party of China (CCP).

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is playing Cupid this Valentine’s Day and looking for Floridians with “Valentine’s-themed names” and urging them to search Florida’s Unclaimed Property database. Currently, Florida has more than $19 million in unclaimed property with Floridians who have the names listed below. Additionally, since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.9 billion has been returned to Floridians in unclaimed property.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the January Consumer Price Index report which indicated inflation increased 6.4% on an annual basis.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the January Consumer Price Index report which indicated inflation increased 6.4% on an annual basis.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $26 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of January. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.9 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Hoy, Oficial principal de finanzas (CFO) Jimmy Patronis emitió una declaración luego del anuncio del IRS de una nueva propuesta de programa de informes de propinas entre el IRS y los empleadores en las industrias de servicios. El IRS propuso el nuevo procedimiento de ingresos esta semana para apuntar a las propinas ganadas por los empleados de la industria de servicios.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the IRS’s announcement of a new tip reporting program proposal between the IRS and employers in the service industries. The IRS proposed the new revenue procedure this week to target tips earned by service industry employees.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following the passage of Senate Bill 52 from the Senate Education Pre-k-12 Committee. Senate Bill 52 by Senator Danny Burgess requires Florida school districts to prohibit and prevent students from accessing social media platforms through the use of internet access provided by each district. Further, the bill calls for in-school instruction on social media safety and how best it can be utilized in personal and professional life.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Willie Hill in Jacksonville on one charge of Arson of an Occupied Dwelling for his alleged involvement in intentionally setting a trailer on fire.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis hosted a press conference at the Florida Capitol in Tallahassee to highlight his “Four Pillars of IRS Protection” to safeguard Florida families and businesses from overreach and targeting by the Internal Revenue Services (IRS). The CFO was joined by National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB), Florida TaxWatch, The James Madison Institute (JMI), Senator Blaise Ingoglia, Representative Toby Overdorf, and other members of the legislature. Last year, the CFO announced he would work to pass legislation for the upcoming session to fight back against the IRS, which is expected to grow by 87,000 personnel through an $80 billion appropriation of taxpayer money from the Inflation Reduction Act that President Biden signed into law last August. Senate Bill 372 and House Bill 507 were filed recently in association with the CFO’s Pillars of IRS protection by Senator Blaise Ingoglia and Representative Toby Overdorf ahead of the 2023 Legislative Session.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis hosted a press conference at Sklar Furnishings in Boca Raton to highlight his “Four Pillars of IRS Protection” to safeguard Florida families and businesses from overreach and targeting by the Internal Revenue Services (IRS). The CFO was joined by Representative Toby Overdorf, along with other members of the legislature, Florida TaxWatch and local elected officials.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis hosted a press conference at Restocon in Tampa to highlight his “Four Pillars of IRS Protection” to safeguard Florida families and businesses from overreach and targeting by the Internal Revenue Services (IRS).

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement applauding Governor DeSantis’ Framework for Freedom 2023-2024 budget.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis hosted a press conference at USA Roller Chain and Sprockets in Clermont to highlight his “Four Pillars of IRS Protection” to safeguard Florida families and businesses from overreach and targeting by the Internal Revenue Services (IRS). The CFO was joined by National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB), Florida TaxWatch, state legislators and local elected officials.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis attended the Scams and Fraud Seminar in The Villages and highlighted his “Be Scam Smart” financial safety video series for senior citizens. The “Be Scam Smart” videos are designed to be a simple and accessible way for senior citizens to learn the warning signs of a scam, and how to not become a victim of identity theft. In 2021, it was estimated that seniors in the United States lost nearly $1 billion to scams. The free online videos cover topics such as common scam tactics, identity theft, and what to know before you purchase annuities and reverse mortgages. Visit MyFloridaCFO.com/SAFE to learn more.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Jeremy Dewitte on charges of Deposit Check with Intent to Defraud, False and Fraudulent Motor Vehicle Insurance Application, Sexual Offender Fail to Register Insurance Vehicle, False and Fraudulent Motor Vehicle Insurance Application, False and Fraudulent Insurance Claim Under $20,000, Communications Fraud Over $300, Staged Crash, False and Fraudulent Insurance Claim Under $20,000, Communications Fraud Over $300, and Scheme to Defraud Under $20,000.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced his support for HB 379 and SB 52 by Representative Brad Yeager and Senator Danny Burgess that requires Florida school districts to prohibit and prevent students from accessing social media platforms through the use of internet access provided by each district. Further, the bill calls for in-school instruction on social media safety and how best it can be utilized in personal and professional life.

Today, the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) announced that last week, January 23 through January 28, over $5.4 million in insurance claims checks were cut by 13 participating insurance companies at Insurance Villages in Punta Gorda, Englewood, and Fort Myers for 1,086 residents impacted by Hurricane Ian. Representatives from the National Flood Insurance Program, the Florida Association of Public Insurance Adjusters, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) were on scene meeting with consumers as well. These Hurricane Ian Insurance Villages have provided opportunities for local area residents having insurance issues to meet directly with their insurance company and work together to resolve outstanding claims.

Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis appointed Ken Jones to the Florida State Board of Administration (SBA) Investment Advisory Council (IAC). The IAC provides independent policy oversight of SBA’s funds and major investment responsibilities. Ken Jones’ appointment is subject to Senate confirmation and his term expires on December 12, 2023.

Today, the Department of Financial Services (DFS) announced that, as a follow up to last year’s deployment of initial payment centers to Southwest Florida due to Hurricane Ian, the Division of Consumer Services is hosting an Insurance Village today, Friday, January 27th and Saturday, January 28th. The village will serve as an opportunity for policyholders to meet with their property insurer in-person and work together to resolve outstanding claims. Representatives from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and more than a dozen insurers are expected to be on hand to assist insurance consumers.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis highlighted proposed legislation to provide Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) coverage for Florida’s emergency dispatchers and Crime Scene Investigators (CSI). In 2018, CFO Patronis successfully championed legislation to provide vital PTSD benefits for Florida’s first responders under the state’s workers’ compensation system. Senate Bill 352 and House Bill 337, filed recently for the 2023 Legislative Session by Senator Burgess and Representative McFarland, will expand those same coverages to civilian emergency support personnel who are also impacted by the devastating effects of PTSD.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to the Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) regarding the recent collapse of cryptocurrency exchange firm FTX. The CFO encouraged OFR to use every tool the financial regulatory agency has to aid Floridians impacted by the FTX financial collapse.

"The battle against TikTok continues as federal lawmakers introduce legislation that would ban the social media app in the United States. Florida leaders are involved, including Gov. Ron DeSantis. On Tuesday, I spoke with Jimmy Patronis, the state’s chief financial officer, about the risks he sees with the social media app — and why he wants colleges to jump on board and ban the app."

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a directive barring asset managers within Florida’s deferred compensation program from investing participants’ compensation in financial products associated with Environmental, Societal and Governance (ESG) standards.

Today, the Department of Financial Services (DFS) announced that, as a follow up to last year’s deployment of initial payment centers to Southwest Florida due to Hurricane Ian, the Division of Consumer Services will host three Insurance Villages the week of January 23 through January 28. The villages will serve as an opportunity for policyholders to meet with their property insurer in-person and work together to resolve outstanding claims. Representatives from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and more than a dozen insurers are expected to be on hand to assist insurance consumers.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a proclamation recognizing the week of January 16, 2023 – January 20, 2023 as Florida Thrift Week. This proclamation highlights the practice and the benefits of thrift and the positive impacts it has on Florida’s economy. Thrift is a long-time American tradition that promotes financial literacy which leads to responsible consumerism and smart saving practices.

Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis, Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet honored and recognized individuals from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) who were awarded special honors in 2021. These annual awards acknowledge the dedicated public servants who represent the State of Florida and work around the clock to keep Floridians safe.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis, Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet presented Sergeant David “Shack” Cox of the Florida Highway Patrol with a Cabinet Resolution honoring his service and recognizing him as the 2021 Trooper of the Year. Trooper Cox has served the State of Florida as a highway patrol officer since 2006.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of five individuals in Dade County for their alleged involvement in a staged automobile accident insurance fraud scheme. The five individuals were allegedly paid $1,000 each to participate in the staged automobile accident and receive treatment at local personal injury protection (PIP) clinics with the intent to fraudulently bill insurance companies out of more than $50,000.

In recognition of January as Financial Wellness Month, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is encouraging Floridians to know the warning signs of financial scams and is sharing tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued a proclamation recognizing January as Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month. The month is an opportunity to highlight the issues faced by Florida firefighters, as well as the need for decontamination gear and firefighter cancer coverage. According to the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF), cancer remains the number one line-of-duty death in the entirety of the fire service.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $26 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of December. In 2022, the CFO’s Division of Unclaimed Property returned a grand total of $351.2 million. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.8 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Jessie James Kropp on one count of Arson in Marion County for allegedly lighting a mortar-style firework in his ex-girlfriend’s vehicle, shattering the back window and causing extensive fire damage. Kropp also attempted to avoid arrest by initiating a high-speed vehicle chase before being taken into custody by law enforcement.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released the following statement on Inauguration Day. CFO Patronis was sworn in today to serve his second term alongside Governor Ron DeSantis, Attorney General Ashley Moody, and Florida’s newly elected Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson.