Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association News

Carol Dover inducted into VISIT FLORIDA Tourism Hall of Fame

Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA), was inducted into the Florida Tourism Hall of Fame during the Chairman’s Dinner at the annual VISIT FLORIDA Governor’s Conference on Tourism in Tampa. The induction recognizes individuals "whose vision, creativity, and drive have had a positive and significant impact on the development of Florida as a desirable visitor destination."

Disaster unemployment assistance announced for Floridians impacted by Hurricane Debby

Today, FloridaCommerce announced that Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is available to Florida businesses and residents whose employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted as a direct result of Hurricane Debby and who are not eligible for regular state or federal Reemployment Assistance benefits. Eligible Floridians are encouraged to submit a claim at FloridaJobs.org.

Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association endorses Tom Leek for Senate

The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) has endorsed Representative Tom Leek, a Republican from Ormond Beach, for the Florida Senate District 7 seat. Carol Dover, President & CEO of FRLA, stated, "On behalf of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association and Florida’s premier hospitality and tourism industry, I am proud to endorse Representative Tom Leek for Florida’s open seat in Senate District 7." She highlighted Leek's leadership in promoting business-friendly policies and his role in advancing the state's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

IRS offers extended deadlines for hurricane victims

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced tax relief for individuals and businesses in South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida, and Georgia affected by Hurricane Debby. Affected taxpayers now have until February 3, 2025, to file various federal individual and business tax returns and make tax payments.

Governor DeSantis activates emergency bridge loan for businesses hit by Hurricane Debby

Governor DeSantis announced the activation of the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making $10 million available for businesses impacted by Hurricane Debby. Florida small business owners in need of assistance, including sole proprietors, are encouraged to visit www.FloridaJobs.org/EBL to apply for the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program. The program provides short-term, zero-interest loans to small businesses that experienced economic injury or physical damage due to Hurricane Debby. Interested applicants can apply now through September...

Florida activates survey to assess hurricane damage impact on businesses

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, FloridaCommerce and the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) activated the Business Damage Assessment Survey in response to Hurricane Debby. Business owners can self-report physical and economic damage caused by Hurricane Debby. Survey responses will allow the state to expedite Hurricane Debby recovery efforts by gathering data and assessing the needs of impacted businesses.

FloridaCommerce announces $2.1 million funding for flood-impacted small businesses

FloridaCommerce has approved more than $2.1 million in funding through the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program to assist small businesses affected by recent flooding in South Florida. To date, 66 businesses have been approved to receive these funds as a temporary financial solution while they await other sources of funding, such as insurance claims. Applications continue to be processed daily.

University of Florida offers online master’s program in tourism

Unlock your potential and elevate your career trajectory through the University of Florida’s dynamic online Master’s in Tourism and Hospitality program. This 100% online curriculum is tailored to help professionals excel in the fast-paced hospitality industry.

Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association responds to veto of SB 280 on vacation rentals

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA), a prominent hospitality trade association in the state, issued a statement following Governor Ron DeSantis' veto of SB 280. The bill was designed to establish fairness between hotels and unregulated short-term rentals across Florida.

How tipping impacts various roles within your restaurant

Tipping might seem like a simple exchange—a thank you for good service with a few extra dollars. However, beneath the surface lies a complex economy that impacts everyone in a restaurant, from operators to dishwashers. Understanding how tipping affects each role can reveal its significant impact on employee retention.

Governor DeSantis declares state of emergency after North Florida tornadoes

Following severe weather that impacted North Florida on May 10, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-94, declaring a state of emergency in twelve counties. The counties affected are Baker, Columbia, Gadsden, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Suwannee, Taylor, and Wakulla.

Florida activates emergency bridge loan program for tornado-impacted small businesses

FloridaCommerce has announced the activation of the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, with $2 million allocated for businesses affected by recent severe weather in North Florida. The program aims to provide short-term, zero-interest loans to small businesses that have experienced economic injury or physical damage due to the tornadoes in May.

Governor DeSantis expands state of emergency in North Florida

Following severe weather that impacted North Florida on May 10, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order (EO) 24-94. Today, Governor DeSantis expanded the state of emergency to include additional counties through Executive Order 24-95. The order now encompasses a total of 15 counties: Baker, Columbia, Escambia, Gadsden, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Suwannee, Taylor, and Wakulla.