FL S0062

Appropriates $670,493 from the General Revenue Fund to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to compensate Shuler Limited Partnership for damages to 835 acres of timber caused by negligence and violation of statute by Florida Forest Service employees.

Covers damages and costs remaining after the Florida Forest Service paid $100,000 under existing statutory liability limits in s. 768.28, Florida Statutes, following a jury verdict and First District Court of Appeal affirmation.

Damages resulted from an April 9, 2008 prescribed burn in Tate's Hell State Forest that escaped across Cash Creek onto Shuler's Pasture due to an ember from smoldering fire before complete extinguishment.

Directs the Chief Financial Officer to issue a warrant for $670,493 payable to Shuler Limited Partnership as full compensation for all present and future claims arising from the incident.

Limits attorney's fees, lobbying fees, costs, and similar expenses relating to the claim to no more than 25 percent of the total award amount.