FL H7173

Requires permission to distribute handbills at public lodging establishments to be in written form only (eliminating oral permission as valid).

Increases minimum fines for directing another person to distribute handbills without permission from $500 to $1,000, with escalating penalties of $2,000 for a second violation and $3,000 for third or subsequent violations.

Authorizes law enforcement officers to arrest without a warrant for violations of handbill distribution laws when the public lodging establishment owner or manager signs an affidavit supporting probable cause.

Makes personal property, vehicles, and other items subject to seizure and forfeiture under the Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act when used in a third or subsequent violation of handbill distribution restrictions.

Takes effect October 1, 2010.