Bill Summary: CS/CS/CS/HB 651

• Authorizes Department of Financial Services to create an Internet-based transmission system for accepting service of process and eliminates requirement for Executive Office of Governor to approve alternative retirement program for temporary/seasonal state employees.

• Increases audit threshold for state financial assistance from $500,000 to $750,000 and exempts higher education entities (Florida College System and state universities) from certain audit requirements.

• Extends exemption of medical malpractice insurance premiums from emergency assessments under Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund from May 31, 2016 to May 31, 2019.

• Establishes Firefighter Assistance Grant Program to provide financial assistance to volunteer and combination fire departments for training, equipment, and apparatus; creates exemption process for individuals with criminal records or dishonorable discharge to obtain fire service licensure/certification after 5 years.

• Revises provisions related to service of process fees ($15), carbon monoxide detector standards in public lodging establishments, surplus lines agent requirements, and insurance rate filing exemptions including travel insurance; appropriates $229,165 and authorizes one position for implementation.