FL S1520

Allows coastal counties (Gulf of Mexico or Atlantic Ocean) to use up to 10 percent of tourist development tax revenue for public safety and emergency medical services related to tourism impacts.

Restricts this new use to counties that do not receive revenue from taxes under s. 125.0108, and requires counties to meet three criteria: generate minimum $10 million annual proceeds from authorized taxes, have at least three municipalities, and have population under 225,000.

Prohibits using tourist development tax revenues for public safety or emergency services to replace normal operating expenses of emergency services, fire, sheriff, or police departments.

Requires county board of commissioners to approve reimbursements by majority vote upon recommendation from the tourist development council.

Effective July 1, 2016.