FL H0265

Creates new section 849.0913, Florida Statutes, establishing comprehensive definitions and prohibitions for pyramid promotional schemes where compensation is primarily based on recruiting others rather than selling products or services

Establishes tiered criminal penalties: third-degree felony for establishing, promoting, or operating a pyramid scheme; first-degree misdemeanor for participating in one

Courts must order convicted persons to pay restitution including investigation/prosecution expenses and disgorgement of profits

Exempts legitimate multi-level marketing operations that base compensation on actual product sales and implement inventory repurchase programs (minimum 90% of net cost within 12 months for current, marketable inventory)

Deletes existing pyramid sales scheme provisions from section 849.091 and replaces with the new, more detailed regulatory framework; effective July 1, 2026