Latest News in Labor and Employment | St. Petersburg, FL https://www.stpetlawgroup.site/topics/blog/labor-and-employment/ St Petersburg's Oldest Full Service Law Firm Wed, 12 Feb 2025 19:40:24 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.stpetlawgroup.site/wp-content/uploads/favicon-150x150.png Latest News in Labor and Employment | St. Petersburg, FL https://www.stpetlawgroup.site/topics/blog/labor-and-employment/ 32 32 What Constitutes a Breach of Contract in Florida? https://www.stpetlawgroup.site/what-constitutes-a-breach-of-contract-in-florida/ Tue, 11 Feb 2025 16:23:02 +0000 http://3.129.126.197/?p=15965 If you believe someone has defaulted on your contract, then you should contact a Florida breach of contract lawyer to review your case.

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Updated February 11, 2025 by Alec Waid

When two parties enter into a contract, and one of the parties fails to fulfill its obligations under the terms of the contract, a breach of the contract occurs. This means that a breach has occurred when one party has failed to honor the terms of the agreement.

To determine whether a breach of contract occurred, the first question is whether the parties have entered into a valid contract. While contracts are typically in writing and signed by both parties, oral contracts can be enforceable in Florida in certain instances.

It is important to hire a lawyer to first determine whether the parties have entered into a valid and enforceable contract. An experienced contract attorney can also help determine whether a breach has occurred, whether there are any available defenses to the breach, and whether any damages have occurred from a result of the breach.

If you believe you have a breach of contract claim – or if you are being sued for breach of contract – then you should contact a Florida breach of contract lawyer to review your case.

What Is a Breach of Contract?

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In Florida, a “breach of contract” occurs when a party fails to perform or violates the terms in a contract.

Typical examples of a breach of contract include failure to deliver goods on time, failing to provide services, or failing to remit payment on time.

Parties to a contract can include both individuals or businesses.

Breach of Contract Elements

It is important to initially determine whether a valid agreement exists under Florida law.

Under Florida law, the elements of a breach of contract claim are (1) a valid contract, (2) a material breach of that contract, and (3) damages. A material breach occurs only when an injured party has sustained a substantial injury due to the breach. The injured party may only recover if the damages are a proximate result of the material breach.

In order to bring a breach of contract claim, it is important to attach a copy of the written contract or otherwise incorporate the terms of the contract in the complaint. The Florida Rules of Civil Procedure provide that all contracts upon which action may be brought or defenses made shall be incorporated in or attached to the pleadings. A complaint based upon a written instrument thus does not state a cause of action until the contract or an adequate portion is attached to or incorporated in the complaint. When a party fails to attach or incorporate the documents upon which the claim rests, the pleading is deficient and subject to dismissal. This means that a copy of the contract should be attached or incorporated into your complaint.

Further, in breach of contract actions, it is necessary that the plaintiff allege the elements of the contract with enough precision that the person against whom the plaintiff can properly defend himself.

Is the Contract Valid?

The easiest way to prove a valid contract exists is if the parties have entered into a written document.

Generally, contracts can be either oral or written. However, there are certain contracts which do need to be in writing in order for the contract to be enforceable by Florida courts. For example, Florida’s “statute of frauds” requires certain contracts be in writing by the party sought to be charged in order for a plaintiff to bring a valid claim. A contract for the sale of land is an example of a contract which falls within Florida’s statute of frauds.

An experienced contact attorney can determine whether you have entered into a valid contract. Even if you do not have a valid contract, there are other possible causes of action which may be available to you.

What Breach of Contract Remedies Are Available in Florida?

Rescission

Plaintiffs can use rescission to effectively “undo” a contract that has been breached.

The fundamental requirements necessary to state a cause of action for rescission are: (1) the character or relationship of the parties; (2) the making of a contract; (3) the existence of fraud, mutual mistake, false representation, impossibility of performance, or other ground for rescission or cancellation; (4) the party seeking rescission had rescinded the contract and notified the other party to the contract of such rescission; (5) the moving party has received benefits from the contract, he should further allege an offer to restore these benefits to the party furnishing them, if restoration is possible; and (6) the moving party has no adequate remedy at law.

Under Florida law, equity will not usually order rescission unless the condition of the parties may be restored as it existed prior to the execution of the contract. Further, a court may not exercise its equity powers when there is an adequate remedy at law.

Damages

There are various types of damages which may be available. For instance, compensatory damages can be sought by the party who has been harmed due to the breach of contract. General damages cover what the plaintiff actually lost. Special damages cover indirect losses caused by the breach of contract. Liquidated damages may also be available in certain instances.

What Breach of Contract Defenses Are Available in Florida?

If you have been sued for breach of contract, there are certain defenses which may be available to you.

Certain defenses which may be available to you include, but are not limited to:

  • The plaintiff failed to perform its obligations first and therefore committed the first breach of the contract, which discharges the defendant from any obligations under the agreement.
  • The terms of the contract are impossible to perform, and the lawsuit thus fails due to impossibility of performance.
  • The contract fails due to a frustration of purpose.
  • The plaintiff has failed to satisfy conditions precedent by failing to establish it performed under the terms of the contracts.
  • The plaintiff failed to provide the requisite default notice set forth in the agreement.
  • The plaintiff is limited to the terms of the contract it executed and cannot bring claims for alleged breaches outside the written terms of the contract.
  • The plaintiff has failed to show it performed under the terms of the contracts,
  • The plaintiff breached the implied covenant of good faith, commercial reasonableness, and fair dealing.
  • There is a lack of consideration.

Hire a Breach of Contract Lawyer in Florida

If you believe you may have a breach of contract claim – or if you need to defend yourself against a breach of contract claim – it is important to contact an attorney. Contact our experienced Florida Breach of Contract lawyers today.

Our team at Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. have extensive experience that can help you in every step of the legal process from breach of contract remedies to defending you in court.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

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General Provisions Under the Fair Labor Standards Act https://www.stpetlawgroup.site/general-provisions-under-the-fair-labor-standards-act/ Fri, 04 Sep 2020 01:29:10 +0000 http://54.160.171.51/?p=2827 The Fair Labor Standards Act, also known as the FLSA, is a federal statute which sets forth certain standards to employees in the private and governmental sector.

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The Fair Labor Standards Act, also known as the FLSA, is a federal statute which sets forth certain standards to employees in the private and governmental sector. The Fair Labor Standards Act enforces and administers the Wage and Hour Division of the U.S. Department of Labor.

Employers

Not all employers are deemed to be “covered enterprise / employers” pursuant to the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Factors as to whether an employee is considered a covered enterprise include if the covered enterprise (1) has an annual gross volume of sales made or business done is not less than $500,000, (2) is engaged in the operation of a hospital, an institution primarily engaged in the care of the sick, the aged, or the mentally ill who reside on the premises; a school for mentally or physically disabled or gifted children; a preschool, an elementary or secondary school, or an institution of higher education (whether operated for profit or not for profit); or (3) is an activity of a public agency.

Further, employees working for entities which are not deemed covered enterprises under the Fair Labor Standards Act may still be subjected to the FLSA provisions if they are engaged in interstate commerce, in the production of goods for interstate commerce, or closely related to any process or occupation which is essential to the production of goods for interstate commerce. Indeed, an employee is covered under the Fair Labor Standards Act in certain instances if the workers are engaged in interstate commerce, are producing goods for interstate commerce, or otherwise participating in the handling, selling, or working on goods or materials which have been moved in or produced for interstate commerce.

Common Categories of the Fair Labor Standards Act

The commonly-known main categories of the Fair Labor Standards Act are the following.

1.) Hours Worked

Pursuant to the Fair Labor Standards Act “hours worked” generally includes all of the time which an employee is required to be on the employer’s premises, on duty, or at a prescribed workplace.

2.) Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25. Employees covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act are entitled to the aforementioned minimum wage.

It is important to note that an employer cannot make deductions from wages to the extent that the deductions reduce the employee’s wages below the minimum rate required by the Fair Labor Standards Act. (Examples of such deductions include uniforms or tools).

The Fair Labor Standards Act also sets forth certain requirements for tipped employees. Tipped employees are defined as employees who are engaged in occupations wherein the employee customarily and regularly receives more than thirty dollars ($30) in tips. The employer can consider tips as part of the wages. However, an employer must pay the tipped employee at least $2.13 an hour in wages. Furthermore, for an employee to use the tip credit provisions under the FLSA, the employer must place the employee on advance notice of certain criteria and be able to establish certain requirements

3.) Overtime

Employees covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act are entitled to overtime. Overtime pay is pay at a rate not less than one and one-half times the regular rate of the employee’s pay. Overtime pay is required to be paid by the employer after the employee works after forty (40) hours of work in one work week.

Certain employees are exempt from the hourly wage requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act. It is thus important to know if you are an employee who is covered by the mandatory overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act.

It is important to note that an employer cannot make deductions from wages to the extent that the deductions reduce the employee’s wages below the overtime due pursuant to the Fair Labor Standards Act.

4.) Recordkeeping

Employers must maintain appropriate recordkeeping. This means that employers must keep employee time and pay records. These records are to include wages, hours, and other requirements as specified by the Department of Labor regulations. With respect to an employee who is subject to the minimum wage provisions – or the minimum wage and overtime pay provisions – it is imperative to note that the following records must be kept: (1) the employee’s personal information, including the employee’s name, home address, occupation, sex, and birth date if the employee is under 18 years of age or younger; (2) the hour and day when workweek begins; (3) the total hours worked each workday and each workweek; (4) the total daily or weekly straight-time earnings; (5) the regular hourly pay rate for any week when overtime is worked; (6) the total overtime pay for the workweek; (7) any deductions from or additions to wages; (8) the total wages paid each pay period; and (9) the date of payment and pay period covered.

Further, employees must display an official poster which outlines the requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act.

5.) Child Labor

The Fair Labor Standards Act also contains specific to child labor. This section provides certain requirements for employees under the age of eighteen (18).

The Fair Labor Standards Act child labor provisions include restrictions on the hours of work that a minor under the age of sixteen (16) can work. The Fair Labor Standards Act also lists certain hazardous occupations which are prohibited for minors to perform. This list of prohibited occupations declared to be too dangerous include both farm and non farm jobs.

Exempt Employees

It is important to know that certain employees are exempt from the minimum wage provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and/or the minimum wage and overtime requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Employment Law Attorneys at Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A.

If you feel that your employer has violated the Fair Labor Standards Act – or if you are an employer and an employee is alleging a violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act – contact the employment law attorneys at Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. today. Our experienced employment lawyers can speak with you regarding your situation.

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Class Action Lawsuits https://www.stpetlawgroup.site/class-action-lawsuits/ Thu, 16 Jul 2020 13:54:52 +0000 http://54.160.171.51/?p=2771 A class action is generally defined as a lawsuit filed or defended by an individual or small group acting on behalf of a large group.

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class action is generally defined as a lawsuit filed or defended by an individual or small group acting on behalf of a large group. There are certain rules that apply to class actions filed in state court in Florida. Florida Rule of Civil Procedure Rule 1.220 governs class actions.

Prerequisites to Class Representation

Rule 1.220 provides that there are certain prerequisites to bringing and maintaining a class action. Before any claim or defense may be maintained on behalf of a class by one party or more suing or being sued as the representative of all the members of a class, the court shall first conclude that (1) the members of the class are so numerous that separate joinder of each member is impracticable, (2) the claim or defense of the representative party raises questions of law or fact common to the questions of law or fact raised by the claim or defense of each member of the class, (3) the claim or defense of the representative party is typical of the claim or defense of each member of the class, and (4) the representative party can fairly and adequately protect and represent the interests of each member of the class. These principles are generally known as numerosity, commonality, typicality, and adequacy.

Claims and Defenses Maintainable

In terms of what claims and/or defenses can be maintainable by a class action, Rule 1.220 provides that a claim or defense may be maintained on behalf of a class if the court concludes that numerosity, commonality, typicality, and adequacy are satisfied, and that:
  1. the prosecution of separate claims or defenses by or against individual members of the class would create a risk of either: (a) inconsistent or varying adjudications concerning individual members of the class which would establish incompatible standards of conduct for the party opposing the class; or (b) adjudications concerning individual members of the class which would, as a practical matter, be dispositive of the interests of other members of the class who are not parties to the adjudications, or substantially impair or impede the ability of other members of the class who are not parties to the adjudications to protect their interests; or
  2. the party opposing the class has acted or refused to act on grounds generally applicable to all the members of the class, thereby making final injunctive relief or declaratory relief concerning the class as a whole appropriate; or
  3. the claim or defense is not maintainable under either of the two prongs referenced above, but the questions of law or fact common to the claim or defense of the representative party and the claim or defense of each member of the class predominate over any question of law or fact affecting only individual members of the class, and class representation is superior to other available methods for the fair and efficient adjudication of the controversy. The conclusions shall be derived from consideration of all relevant facts and circumstances, including (a) the respective interests of each member of the class in individually controlling the prosecution of separate claims or defenses, (b) the nature and extent of any pending litigation to which any member of the class is a party and in which any question of law or fact controverted in the subject action is to be adjudicated, (c) the desirability or undesirability of concentrating the litigation in the forum where the subject action is instituted, and (d) the difficulties likely to be encountered in the management of the claim or defense on behalf of a class.

Pleading Requirements

There are also pleading requirements to keep in mind when pleading a class action.

Determination of Class Representation; Notice; Judgment; Claim or Defense Maintained Partly on Behalf of a Class

Florida Rule of Civil Procedure 1.220 provides that as soon as practicable after service of any pleading alleging the existence of a class under this rule and before service of an order for pretrial conference or a notice for trial, after a hearing, the court shall enter an order determining whether the claim or defense is maintainable on behalf of a class on the application of any party or on the court’s initiative. Irrespective of whether the court determines that the claim or defense is maintainable on behalf of a class, the order shall separately state the findings of fact and conclusions of law upon which the determination is based. In making the determination the court (a) may allow the claim or defense to be so maintained, and, if so, shall state under which pertinent subsection the claim or defense is to be maintained, (b) may disallow the class representation and strike the class representation allegations, or (c) may order postponement of the determination pending the completion of discovery concerning whether the claim or defense is maintainable on behalf of a class. If the court rules that the claim or defense shall be maintained on behalf of a class, the order shall also generally provide for the notice required. As soon as is practicable after the court determines that a claim or defense is maintainable on behalf of a class, notice of the pendency of the claim or defense shall be given by the party asserting the existence of the class to all the members of the class. The notice shall be given to each member of the class who can be identified and located through reasonable effort and shall be given to the other members of the class in the manner determined by the court to be most practicable under the circumstances. Unless otherwise ordered by the court, the party asserting the existence of the class shall initially pay for the cost of giving notice. The notice shall inform each member of the class that (a) any member of the class who files a statement with the court by the date specified in the notice asking to be excluded shall be excluded from the class, (b) the judgment, whether favorable or not, will include all members who do not request exclusion, and (c) any member who does not request exclusion may make a separate appearance within the time specified in the notice.

Contact the Attorneys at Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A.

This article does not address all the requirements set forth in Florida Rule of Civil Procedure 1.220 or Florida case law concerning class actions. The employment attorneys at Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. are experienced in the defense of class action litigation. If you are defending a class litigation, contact the civil litigation and commercial litigation attorneys at Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. today.

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What Is Service of Process? https://www.stpetlawgroup.site/what-is-service-of-process/ Wed, 10 Jun 2020 18:15:48 +0000 http://54.160.171.51/?p=2728 This article will review how to effectuate original service of process – notifying other party of an action.

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Service of process is the formal procedure of delivering documents to another party in litigation. This article will review how to effectuate original service of process – notifying other party of an action. It is important to ensure service of process is made pursuant to Florida law. Otherwise, if service is not perfected, the party receiving service can move to quash the service of process. Florida Statutes, Chapter 48, governs process and service of process. The two most common statutes in the State of Florida which address general service of process are Florida Statute 48.031 (service of process generally) and Florida Statute 48.081 (service on corporations).

Florida Statute 48.031

Florida Statute 48.031 sets forth service of process generally.

Service of original process is made by delivering a copy upon the person or by leaving copies at the individual’s usual place of abode with any person residing at the above who is at least fifteen years of age or order and informing the person of the contents. If an employer is notified by an individual authorized to serve process that the individual intends to serve an employee, the employer shall allow this individual to serve the employee in a private area designated by the employer.

An Individual Can Also Be Served by What Is Known as Substituted Service of Process

Substituted service of process can be made on the spouse of the individual who is to be served in certain scenarios. Substituted service can also be made on an individual doing business as a sole proprietorship at his or her place of business during regular business hours. Substituted service can be made by serving the person in charge of the business at the time of service if two attempts to serve the owner were made at the place of business. Further, if the only address for a person who is to be served discoverable via public records is a private mailbox, a virtual office, an executive office, or mini suite, substituted service can be made by leaving a copy of the service of process with the person in charge of the private mailbox, a virtual office, an executive office, or mini suite. However, this can only be done if the process server determines that the person who is to be served maintains a private mailbox, a virtual office, an executive office, or mini suite at that location. A person who serves process (typically known as a process server) must place the date and time of service on the first page of the process served, along with his or her initials or signature, and his or her identification number if applicable. The person requesting service, or the process server, must file a return of process with the court.

Florida Statute 48.081

Florida Statutes 48.081 sets forth the procedure on how to effectuate proper service of process on corporations.

The statute provides that process against any private corporation (domestic or foreign) may be served:
  1. On the president or vice president, or other head of the corporation
  2. In the absence of any person described above, on the cashier, treasurer, secretary, or general manager;
  3. In the absence of any person described in the two above paragraphs, on any director; or
  4. In the absence of any person described in the three above paragraphs, on any officer or business agent residing in the state.
If a foreign corporation does not have any of these above-referenced officers or agents in the State of Florida, service can be made on any agent transacting business for it in the State of Florida. Furthermore, the statute provides that as an alternative to all of the foregoing, process may be served on the agent designated by the corporation under Florida Statute 48.091. However, if service of process cannot be made on a registered agent because of failure to comply with section 48.091, service of process will be permitted on any employee at the corporation’s principal place of business or on any employee of the registered agent. In this instance, a process server can serve the process of any employee of the registered agent during the first attempt even if the registered agent is only temporarily absent from the office. Further, if the address for the registered agent, officer, director, or principal place of business is a residence, a private mailbox, a virtual office, or an executive office or mini suite, service on the corporation may be made by serving the registered agent, officer, or director in accordance with Florida Statute 48.031. Further, when a corporation engages in substantial and not isolated activities within the State of Florida, or has a business office within the State of Florida and is actually engaged in the transaction of business from that office, service upon any officer or business agent while on corporate business within this Florida may personally be made. It is not necessary in this instance that the action, suit, or proceeding against the corporation must have arisen out of any transaction or operation connected with or incidental to the business being transacted within the State of Florida.

Florida Statute 48.161 and Florida Statute 48.181

However, there are other sections of Florida Statute, Chapter 48, which may apply to your case. For instance, substitute service of process can be made pursuant to Florida Statute 48.161 and Florida Statute 48.181 if the party to be served is a non-resident or is concealing his or her whereabouts. A party seeking to obtain substitute service pursuant to Florida Statute 48.161 or 48.181 must be able to demonstrate that the defendant is a non-resident or is concealing her whereabouts. Furthermore, to perfect substituted service under Florida Statute 48.161 and 48.181, a party must not serve the Secretary of State and also must mail a copy of the summons and complaint to the party to be served by registered or certified mail. When service is attempted on a party who is a natural person, the receipt must be signed by the defendant and filed with the court. It is very important to understand that substituted service of process is an exception to the general rule that a defendant be personally served, so a party seeking to obtain substituted service of process must strictly comply with the statutory requirements so due process guarantees are preserved.

Ensure Compliance with Service of Process

It is very important to ensure proper service of process. When service of process fails to comply with statutory requirements, it is insufficient and will likely be quashed. The litigation attorneys at Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. are experienced in numerous areas of the law. Our skilled litigators are well-versed in the service of process statute, as well as moving to quash defective service of process.

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Employment Discrimination https://www.stpetlawgroup.site/employment-discrimination/ Wed, 13 May 2020 15:28:45 +0000 http://54.160.171.51/?p=2657 This article covers people that have been the targets of employment discrimination or employers that have received a charge of discrimination.

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Federal Level: The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”) is responsible for enforcing laws which make it illegal to discriminate against an employee. Types of discrimination can include age discrimination, disability discrimination, racial discrimination, gender discrimination or sex discrimination (which includes pregnancy discrimination), national origin discrimination, genetic discrimination, and religious discrimination. It is also illegal to engage in harassment. Harassment occurs when an employee is harassed because of his or her race, sex, age, disability, race, gender, sex, genetics, national origin, or religion. It is also illegal for an employer to take retaliatory action – otherwise known as retaliation – against a person for complaining of discrimination These laws apply to hiring, firing, promotions, and other aspects of the employment relationship. The EEOC has the authority to investigate charges of discrimination (including harassment and retaliation) against certain employers. Namely, most employers who have at least fifteen employees are covered within the EEOC’s jurisdiction. If an employee or job applicant maintains that he or she has been subjected to discrimination, the employee or job applicant can file what is known as a charge of discrimination against the employer. The charge of discrimination must include a description of the action the employer took which the employee/applicant felt was discriminatory in nature and the type of discrimination. Once a charge of discrimination is filed, the EEOC will investigate the claim. The EEOC will investigate the matter to determine whether there is reasonable cause to believe that discrimination occurred. When a charge is filed against an employer for discrimination, the EEOC will notify the entity being charged (the employer) within ten days of the charge being filed. This notification to the employer will include information about how the employer can access the EEOC’s online portal, respond to the charge, and more. During the investigation, the employee/job applicant (known as the charging party) and the employer (known as the respondent) will have the opportunity to provide information related to the charge. The EEOC will request the respondent employer to submit a statement of position, which is essentially the employer’s response to the discrimination allegations. The EEOC may request the employer respond to what is referred to as a Request for Information, which asks the employer to provide certain documents. The EEOC may further conduct an on-site visit. The EEOC may also conduct interviews. Once the investigation stage is complete, the EEOC will make its determination as to whether there is reasonable cause to believe that discrimination occurred. If the EEOC determines that there is reasonable cause to believe discrimination occurred, it will issue a letter of determination which formally states that there is reasonable to believe discrimination occurred. The EEOC will invite both parties to seek to resolve the charge through a conciliation process, which is similar to mediation. As stated, if the EEOC determines that discrimination occurred, the EEOC will try to settle the charges through conciliation. Likewise, it is important to know that either party can request that the parties engage in mediation during the investigation/charging process. While the parties are not required to participate in mediation, it is certainly encouraged. If the parties settle the matter, they will request a dismissal of the charge. If conciliation is unsuccessful (meaning the charges cannot be settled between the parties), and the EEOC has determined reasonable cause to believe discrimination occurred, then the EEOC can enforce the violations by filing a lawsuit. If it decides not to litigate the matter, the charging party will receive a notice of right to sue letter. If the EEOC determines that it has not found reasonable cause to believe that discrimination occurred, it will issue a notice which is called a dismissal and notice of rights. The notice informs the employee or applicant that he or she has the right to file a lawsuit in federal court within ninety days. This means that the employee can then file a lawsuit regarding his or her discrimination claim.

State Level: The Florida Commission on Human Relations

Most states and local agencies also have laws which prohibit discrimination – including the State of Florida. The Florida legislature created the Florida Commission on Humans Relations (FCHR) to address discrimination and enforce the Florida Civil Rights Act. If an employee maintains that he or she has been subjected to a charge of discrimination, the employee can file a complaint with the FCHR. The FCHR also has a questionnaire available which solicits information about claims of employment discrimination. This questionnaire assists the FCHR in determining whether it has jurisdiction over the discrimination claims. The FCHR will similarly review and investigate the charge of discrimination (including color, sex, race, religion, national origin, disability, marital status, and age) and reach a decision as to the claim.

Local Level: The Pinellas County Office of Human Rights

On a more local level, the Pinellas County Office of Human Rights was established to protect residents of Pinellas County from cases of discrimination – including employment discrimination. The Pinellas County Office of Human Rights administers Chapter 70 of the Pinellas County Code of Ordinances. This Code prohibits discrimination in employment because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy discrimination and sexual harassment), sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital status, or disability. To file a complaint with the Pinellas County Office of Human Rights (PCHR), the employee or job applicant completes what is known as an “Employment Discrimination Questionnaire.” The PCHR will investigate the employment discrimination complaint, facilitate conciliation of an employment discrimination complaint, and encourage mediation. The PCHR also conducts training for employers.

Know Your Rights

A claim may be filed with the PCHR, FCHR, or it can be dual-filed with both the FCHR and the EEOC. It is important to know that an employee (or applicant) is required to file a charge of discrimination before it can file a lawsuit. Further, there are time limits for filing a claim. You must ensure that your claim is timely filed. Likewise, if you are an employer who has received a charge of discrimination or similar compliant, it is important to respond to the charge and provide as much information to defend the charge of discrimination.

Employment Law Attorneys at Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A.

If you feel that you have been the target of employment discrimination – or if you are an employer that has received a charge of discrimination – contact the employment law attorneys at Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. today. Our experienced employment lawyers can speak with you regarding your situation.

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What I Need to Know About Government Stimulus for Small Businesses Due to Coronavirus https://www.stpetlawgroup.site/what-i-need-to-know-about-government-stimulus-for-small-businesses-due-to-coronavirus/ Thu, 07 May 2020 17:02:10 +0000 http://54.160.171.51/?p=2648 This article is a brief overview of the various programs that are available to small businesses that are designed to assist with economic hardships.

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government assistance in the wake of COVID-19. This article is a brief overview of the various programs that are available to small businesses that are designed to assist with economic hardships brought on by this historic pandemic.

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)

Who is eligible?

In general the requirements for eligibility for a PPP Loan are as follows:
  1. Less than 500 employees
  2. The uncertainty of the current economic conditions make the loan necessary to support the ongoing operations of the business
  3. The funds will be used to retain workers, maintain payroll, make mortgage payments, lease payments, or utility payments.
  4. The business has not already received a loan under the PPP program.

How Do I Determine the Number of Employees?

The number of employees includes, for purposes of loan eligibility, all full time or part time employees. This number is limited to 500.

How Do I Calculate the Amount of the Loan?

The maximum PPP loan is 2.5x the businesses average monthly payroll for the year 2019. The salary, wage, commissions, or similar compensation is capped at a maximum of $100,000 per employee. To calculate the maximum amount of the loan you would take the total payroll for 2019 (less amounts over $100,000 to any one employee) and multiply that number by 2.5. For Example: If Company A has 5 employees 4 of which make $50,000 per year and 1 individual who makes $120,000 per year the maximum PPP loan calculation will be as follows:
  • 2019 Total Payroll = $320,000.00 ((4 x $50,000) + $120,000)
  • Less amount over $100k to any one individual: ($20,000)
  • 2019 Total Payroll for PPP = $300,000
  • Average Monthly Payroll = $25,000
  • Maximum Loan Amount (Avg. Monthly Payroll x 2.5) = $62,500.00

Do I Have to Repay This Loan?

The short answer is that it depends. If you meet the following criteria and you use the entire amount of the loan for qualifying expenses the loan will be forgiven. Qualifying expenses include:
  1. Payroll Costs
  2. Interest on Mortgage Payments
  3. Rent
  4. Utilities

Other requirements for forgiveness:

The other requirements for forgiveness is that at least 75% of the loan must be used for payroll related expenses (more on that in a moment). Also, if you decrease the amount of employees a portion of the loan that may be forgiven will also decrease. Lastly, if you cut an employee’s salary by more than 25% the amount of permitted forgiveness will be decreased. The loan is intended to cover the above permitted expenses within an eight week period commencing on the date that the loan funds. Some of what is required for loan forgiveness is clear and other issues remain unsettled. What is clear is that the government and lenders were focused on getting the money into the hands of businesses that needed the funds to survive. Now that a majority of the earmarked funds have been exhausted or earmarked, the treasury and the SBA seem to be shifting their focus to what will be required to qualify for loan forgiveness.

What Is Included in Payroll Costs?

Payroll costs include the following:
  • salary, wage, commission, or similar compensation
  • payment of cash tip or the equivalent
  • payment for vacation, parental, family, medical or sick leave
  • severance pay
  • payment for group healthcare benefits including insurance premiums
  • payment for retirement benefits
  • payment of state or local tax assessed on the compensation of employees (unemployment tax)
Payroll costs do not include:
  • compensation in excess of $100,000
  • payroll taxes (employer portion)
  • compensation to an employee whose principal residence is outside of the United States

What Happens If the Loan Is Not Forgiven?

If the loan is not forgiven the non-forgiven portion must be repaid within two (2) years at an interest rate of one percent (1%) per annum. There is no prepayment penalty for early prepayment for the loan. As a practical matter it likely makes sense to use the funds only for permissible expenses with the intent of repaying the unused portion after the 8-week period ends. Also, it is worth noting that to the extent there is a need for funds for expenses other than the enumerated “forgiveness” category expenses that a loan bearing one percent (1%) interest is a very attractive loan. Other information about PPP loans not mentioned above:
  1. The loan is non-recourse with no personal guarantees.
  2. No collateral is required
  3. The business does not need to certify that it cannot obtain credit elsewhere.
  4. The maximum amount a business can borrow is the lesser of A) $10,000,000 or B) 2.5x the average monthly payroll (as outlined above).

Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“Eidl”)

Another loan that is available to companies experiencing hardships due to COVID-19 is the EIDL program. The EIDL program is available to businesses with less than 500 employees that have suffered a substantial economic injury as a result of COVID-19. Below are some facts regarding an EIDL loan:
  • There are no personal guarantees for loans less than $200,000.
  • The maximum EIDL loan is $2,000,000
  • The application may be approved solely on the basis of the credit score of the applicant and no submission of tax returns is required.
Perhaps most attractive is that the applicant may request an advancement of up to $10,000 as a grant which is purported to be distributed to the applicant within three days of submitting the application (in our experience these funds have taken longer to reach the applicant). The applicant will not be required to repay the grant so long as the proceeds are used to pay the following:
  1. Paid sick leave for employees unable to work due to COVID-19
  2. Maintaining payroll during business interruptions or substantial slowdowns
  3. Meeting increased costs to obtain materials unavailable from the applicants original source due to interrupted supply chains
  4. Making rent or mortgage payments
  5. Repaying obligations that cannot be met due to revenue losses.
If you have any questions or need help getting started with your government stimulus, contact the business attorneys of Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. today.

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Amended Emergency Measure for the Florida State Courts https://www.stpetlawgroup.site/amended-emergency-measure-for-the-florida-state-courts/ Wed, 06 May 2020 23:14:35 +0000 http://54.160.171.51/?p=2644 The Florida Supreme Court issued a new emergency order which extends, refines, and strengthens previously enacted temporary remedial measures.

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new emergency order which extends, refines, and strengthens previously enacted temporary remedial measures during the coronavirus pandemic. This order revised certain sections of the previously-issued administrative order and is entitled Amendment 1 to Administrative Order No. AOSC20-23 Re: Comprehensive COVID-19 Emergency Measures for the Florida State Court. The measures in this order are in effect until the close of May 29, 2020, unless otherwise provided in the order or subsequently modified. For instance, one notable provision in the order is that all jury proceedings, criminal jury trials, and civil jury trials will remain suspended until July 2, 2020. Below is an overview of several key sections of the emergency order. This overview is not all-inclusive, and there other provisions which appear in the administrative order but do not appear below. For instance, the order also addresses defendants arrested on warrant or capias from another Florida jurisdiction, family law forms, and visitation for children under the protective supervision of the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF), among other topics.

Use of Technology

The order sets forth the following regarding the use of technology:
  1. All rules of procedure, court orders, and opinions applicable to court proceedings that limit or prohibit the use of communication equipment for conducting proceedings by remote electronic means shall remain suspended
  2. Notaries and other persons qualified to administer an oath in the State of Florida may swear a witness remotely by audio-video communication technology from a location within the State of Florida, provided they can positively identify the witness. For purposes of this section regarding the administration of oaths, the term “positively identify” means that the notary or other qualified person can both see and hear the witness or new attorney via audio-video communications equipment for purposes of readily identifying the witness or new attorney.

Jury Proceedings and Jury Trial

The order provides the following regarding court proceedings:
  1. All grand jury proceedings, jury selection proceedings, and criminal and civil jury trials shall remain suspended through July 2, 2020.

Essential and Critical Trial Court Proceedings

The order sets forth the following regarding essential and critical trial court proceedings:
  1. All circuit and county courts shall continue to perform essential court proceedings, including but not limited to: first appearance; criminal arraignments as necessary; hearings on motions to set or modify monetary bail for individuals who are in custody; juvenile dependency shelter hearings; juvenile delinquency detention hearings; hearings on petitions for injunctions relating to safety of an individual; hearings on petitions for risk protection orders; hearings on petitions for the appointment of an emergency temporary guardian; hearings to determine whether an individual should be involuntarily committed under the Baker Act or the Marchman Act; and hearings on petitions for extraordinary writs as necessary to protect constitutional rights.
  2. In addition to essential proceedings, all circuit and county courts shall perform, as necessary and applicable, critical proceedings related to the state of emergency or the public health emergency, including but not limited to proceedings related to: violation of quarantine or isolation; violation of orders to limit travel; violation of orders to close public or private buildings; and enforcement of curfew orders
  3. In conducting essential proceedings and proceedings critical to the state of emergency or the public health emergency, circuit and county courts shall employ all methods feasible to minimize risk of COVID-19 exposure to individuals involved in the proceedings or the general public.
  4. No proceedings or other court events other than essential proceedings and proceedings critical to the state of emergency or the public health emergency shall be conducted through in-person hearings.

Non-Essential and Non-Critical Trial Court Proceedings

The order provides the following regarding non-essential and non-critical trial court proceedings:
  1. Each chief judge shall continue to review cases and court events and the communications technology resources available. The Workgroup on the Continuity of Court Operations and Proceedings During and After COVID-19 has determined that the following proceedings are amenable to being conducted remotely: (1) alternative dispute resolution proceedings; (2) status, case management, and pretrial conferences in all case types; (3) non-evidentiary and evidentiary motion hearings in all case types; (4) arraignments and pleas in absentia in county court misdemeanor cases; (5) hearings in juvenile delinquency cases; (7) hearings in noncriminal traffic infraction cases; (7) problem-solving court staffings, hearings, and wellness checks; and (8) non-jury trials in all case types, except for criminal, juvenile delinquency, and termination of parental rights petitions in dependency cases unless the parties in an excepted case agree to the remote conduct of a non-jury trial. Thus, it is hereby ordered that each of the above-listed proceedings shall be conducted using telephonic or other electronic means available in the subject jurisdiction unless a judge determines to the contrary.

Suspension of Time Periods in Certain Rules of Criminal Procedure

The order states the following regarding suspension of time periods in certain criminal procedural rules:
  1. Speedy Trial. All time periods involving the speedy trial procedure in criminal and juvenile court proceedings shall remain suspended through the close of business on Monday, July 6, 2020. The suspension of time limits under the speedy trial procedure restores additional days equal to the number stated in the previous orders and this order.
  2. Persons Arrested for First Degree Murder. With regard to persons arrested for first degree murder, all time periods under Florida Rules of Criminal Procedure 3.133(b) and 3.134 shall remain suspended through July 2, 2020. The suspension of the time limits of Florida Rules of Criminal Procedure 3.133(b) and 3.134 restores additional days equal to the number stated in the previous order and this order.
  3. Incompetence to Proceed. Where exigencies make it impossible to meet the 20-day time period in Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.210(b), chief judges of the circuit courts remain authorized to direct judges to hold competency hearings as soon as feasible after the date of filing a motion to determine competency. Chief judges also remain authorized to allow experts and attorneys to conduct and attend competency evaluations by remote means, if feasible.

Speedy Trial Procedure in Noncriminal Traffic Infraction Court Proceedings

The order sets forth the following regarding speedy trial procedure in noncriminal traffic infraction court proceedings:
  1. All time periods involving the speedy trial procedure in noncriminal traffic infraction court proceedings remain suspended. The suspension of time limits under the speedy trial procedure restores additional days equal to the number stated in the previous order and this order.

Writs of Possession

The order provides the following regarding writs of possession:
  1. The requirement in Florida Rule of Civil Procedure 1.580(a) for the clerk to issue a writ of possession “forthwith” remains suspended.
For additional information, please refer to the Court’s administrative order. The Business and Corporate Attorneys at Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. hope that you remain healthy and safe during these difficult times. If you are in need of legal assistance please don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation.

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Recent Executive Orders and Local Announcements Regarding Business Closures and Openings https://www.stpetlawgroup.site/business-closures-and-openings/ Mon, 04 May 2020 14:15:20 +0000 http://54.160.171.51/?p=2637 Ron DeSantis recently announced that Florida will start lifting stay-at-home orders, local businesses are questioning whether they can now open their doors.

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certain non-essential businesses must close during the coronavirus pandemic. However, with State of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently announcing that Florida will start lifting stay-at-home orders, many local businesses are questioning whether they can now open their doors for business. Indeed, on April 29, 2020, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order # 2020-112 – Phase One. Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. Plan for Florida’s Recovery. This article will review the sections of Executive Order 20-112: Phase 1 which apply to business closures, business openings, business restrictions, and other related issues. This article will also review Pinellas County’s recent press announcement related to business closures, openings and restrictions.

Executive Order 2020-112: Phase One

“Executive Order # 2020-112 – Phase One. Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. Plan for Florida’s Recovery.” goes into effect on May 4, 2020. In pertinent part, Executive Order 20-112 sets forth the following restrictions for businesses as addressed by previous Executive Orders:
  1. Bars, pubs and nightclubs that derive more than fifty percent of gross revenue from the sale of alcoholic beverages shall continue to suspend the sale of alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption.
  2. Restaurants and food establishments licensed may allow on-premises consumption of food and beverage, so long as they adopt appropriate social distancing measures and limit their indoor occupancy to no more than 25 percent of their building occupancy. The Executive Order further provides that outdoor seating is permissible with appropriate social distancing. Appropriate social distancing requires maintaining a minimum of six feet between parties, only seating parties of ten or fewer people and keeping bar counters closed to seating.
  3. Gyms and fitness centers shall remain closed.
  4. The prohibition on vacation rentals still remains in effect.

Executive Order 20-112 also sets forth the following procedures applicable to other business services affected by previous Executive Orders:

  1. In-store retail sales establishments may open storefronts if they operate at no more than twenty five percent of their building occupancy and abide by the safety guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
  2. Museums and libraries may open at no more than twenty-five percent of their building occupancy provided that local public museums and local public libraries may operate only if permitted by local government, and any components of museums or libraries that have interactive functions or exhibits, including child play areas, remain closed.
Executive Order 20-112 further provides that hospital ambulatory surgical centers, office surgery centers, dental offices, orthodontic offices, endodontic offices or other health care practitioners’ offices may perform the elective procedures which were previously prohibited by Executive Order 20-72; however, these electric procedures may resume only if:
  1. The facility has the capacity to immediately convert additional facility-identified surgical and intensive care beds for treatment of COVID-19 patients in a surge capacity situation;
  2. The facility has adequate personal protective equipment to complete all medical procedures and respond to COVID-19 treatment needs, without the facility seeking any additional federal or state assistance regarding personal protective equipment supplies;
  3. The facility has not sought any additional federal, state, or local government assistance regarding personal protective equipment supplies since resuming elective procedures; and
  4. The facility has not refused to provide support to and proactively engage with skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities and other long-term care residential provider.
Executive Order 20-112 also provides that while all persons in the State of Florida shall continue to limit their personal interactions outside their home, persons may provide or obtain all services and activities which are currently allowed (for instance, those that are included as activities set forth in Executive Order 20-91). However, those persons shall continue to follow safety guidelines issued by the CDC and OSHA. The Executive Order states that violations of this Executive Order amount to a second degree misdemeanor and is punishable by imprisonment not to exceed sixty days, a fine not to exceed five hundred dollars, or both.

Pinellas County Announcements

Pinellas County has further elaborated on certain businesses which may open and must remain closed in Pinellas County Florida. On May 1, 2020, Pinellas County gave a press release announcing that the following activities and businesses pose a higher risk of transmission and thus will remain prohibited or closed during Phase 1:
  1. Concerts;
  2. Music halls;
  3. Bars;
  4. Pubs;
  5. Nightclubs;
  6. Gyms;
  7. Dance studios;
  8. Yoga studios;
  9. Amusement parks;
  10. Waterparks;
  11. Vacation rentals; and
  12. personal services such as haircuts (which would include barbershops, hair spas, and hair salons);
  13. personal services such as nail salons.

On May 1, 2020, Pinellas County also announced the following:

  1. Restaurants and food establishments may reopen dining areas with a maximum patron occupancy of twenty-five percent of the building capacity. Outdoor seating is allowed without capacity percentage limitations. Bar counter seating must remain closed.
  2. Many other nonessential retail businesses that have been closed to foot traffic may resume at limited capacity using social distancing principles.
  3. In-store activities can resume to a maximum of twenty-five percent patron occupancy of the building capacity.
  4. Pet grooming and car washes are specifically among the businesses that may operate starting Monday, May 4, 2020.
  5. The County’s guidance strongly encourages residents to wear masks at indoor businesses like grocery and retail stores.
  6. Museums and libraries may reopen to a patron occupancy of twenty-five percent of the stated building capacity, but interactive functions and exhibits and child play areas must stay closed. Cities may decide to keep museums and libraries closed.
  7. Curbside pickup and delivery by businesses is allowed.

Ensure Compliance

More orders will likely follow. It is important that businesses ensure compliance with the Governor’s Executive Orders and the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners’ Orders. Businesses who do not comply with these Orders can face an order to close. Violators can also face criminal fines or penalties. The employment law attorneys at Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. hope that you remain healthy and safe during these difficult times. If you are in need of legal assistance please don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation.

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Recent Executive Orders Regarding the Coronavirus Pandemic https://www.stpetlawgroup.site/recent-executive-orders-regarding-the-coronavirus-pandemic/ Sat, 02 May 2020 19:41:00 +0000 http://54.160.171.51/?p=2634 This article will review Executive Order 20-111: Limited Extension of Essential Services and Activities and Vacation Rental Prohibition.

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Executive Order 20-111 On April 29, 2020, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued two executive orders: (1) # 2020-111 Executive Order re: Limited Extension of Essential Services and Activities and Vacation Rental Prohibition and (2) # 2020-112 Executive Order re: Phase 1: Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. Plan for Florida’s Recovery. This article will review Executive Order 20-111: Limited Extension of Essential Services and Activities and Vacation Rental Prohibition. The entirety of Executive Order 20-111 is that it extends two previously-entered Executive Orders: Executive Orders 20-87 and 20-91. The first executive order which was extended by Executive Order 20-111 is Executive Order 20-87. Executive Order 20-111 extends this previous executive order until May 4, 2020. Further, Executive Order 20-111 specifically provides that once May 4, 2020 occurs, Executive Order 20-87 will then be extended by a subsequent order. Executive Order 20-87 pertains to vacation rental closures. The second and last executive order which was extended is Executive Order 20-91 (which was also amended by Executive Order 20-92) until May 4, 2020. Executive Order 20-91 pertains to essential services and activities during the COVID-19 emergency.

Executive Order 20-87

Executive Order 20-87 noted that Florida is experiencing an increase in individuals coming to Florida from out-of-state locations and that Florida vacation rentals and third-party platforms advertising vacation rentals present an attractive lodging destination for out-of-state individuals. Accordingly, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ordered that all parties engaged in renting vacation rentals properties are to suspend vacation rental operations. Pursuant to the Executive Order, vacation rentals are prohibited from making new reservations or bookings, and renters shall not accept new guests for the duration of the order. This Executive Order applies to the rental of any house, condominium, cooperative, or dwelling unit that is also a transient public lodging establishment (i) which is rented out for periods of less than thirty days or one month, (2) which is advertised or held out to the public as a place regularly rented to guests, or (3) which is otherwise regulated as a vacation rental pursuant to the Florida Statutes. The Executive Order specifically states it does not apply to hotels, motels, inns, resorts, non-transient public lodging establishments, timeshare projects, long-term rentals, rental stays where the guests were currently staying in the rental, and rentals to persons who were performing military, emergency, governmental, health or infrastructure response, or travelers engaged in non-vacation commercial activities. The Executive Order also addressed violations of the Order. Such violations include that Florida’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation will revoke the vacation rental license of any party that violates the order or advertises for vacation rental opportunities during the order. Violations also include that parties that violate the order – or attempt to violate the order through advertising or means of solicitation – may be charged with a second-degree misdemeanor. Again, it is imperative to note that Executive Order 20-111 provides that once the extension of Executive Order 20-87 expires at 12:01 a.m. on May 4, 2020, the Order will then be extended by a subsequent order.

Executive Order 20-91

Executive Order 20-91 became effective April 3, 2020, and it was subsequently amended by Executive Order 20-92 to supersede any conflicting official action or order issued by local officials in response to COVID-19. The order was originally set to expire on April 30, 2020, and it provides that Executive Order 20-68 (bars, restaurants) and Executive Order 20-71 (alcohol sales, restaurants) remain in effect through the duration of Executive Order 20-52, including any extensions. The Executive Order provides that senior citizens and individuals with a significant underlying medical condition shall stay at home and take all measures to limit the risk of COVID-10. Executive Order 20-91 also orders that all persons shall limit their movements and interactions outside of their home to do only those necessary to obtain or provide essential services or conduct essential activities. This Executive Order defines “essential services” as (i) those set forth in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in its Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce, v. 2 (March 28, 2020) and any subsequent lists published, (ii) those businesses and activities as designated by Executive Order 20-89 and its attachments (which consists of a list propounded by Miami-Dade County in multiple orders), and (iii) those other “essential services” which may be added under this order with the approval of the State Coordinating Officer and in close coordination with the State Health Officer. Further, the Executive Order 20-91 expressly states that nothing in this order prohibits individuals from working from home, and individuals are encouraged to work from home. Executive Order 20-91 limits “essential activities” to (1) attending religious services, (2) participating in recreational activities (consistent with social distancing guidelines; examples include walking, biking, hiking, fishing, hunting, running, or swimming;), (3) taking care of pets, (4) carrying for or assisting a loved one of friend. The Executive Order specifically said that a social gathering in a public space is not an essential activity. For Pinellas County residents, it is important to note that subsequent to Executive Order 20-91, the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners issued Resolution 20-23. This order provided that any retail business, operation, or organization (“business”) which is not within the category of “essential services” or “essential activities” pursuant to Executive Order 20-91 must close. Any businesses which continue to operate pursuant to 20-91 must – to the maximum extent possible – implement and comply with the current CDC guidance on social distancing and hazard mitigation (including personal proximity, sanitation, and hygiene). Further, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Department and Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners subsequently issued a “State of Florida & Pinellas County ‘Safer-At-Home Guidance’” which provides insight on what non-essential businesses shall close in Pinellas County under the Governor’s Executive Order 20-91 and the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners’ Order.

Battaglia, Ross, Dicus, & McQuaid, P.A. is Here for You

The business attorneys at the law firm of Battaglia, Ross, Dicus, & McQuaid, P.A. are closely monitoring the coronavirus pandemic. We hope that you remain healthy and safe during these difficult times.

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Essential Services, Activities, and Businesses in Pinellas County https://www.stpetlawgroup.site/essential-services-activities-and-businesses-in-pinellas-county/ Mon, 06 Apr 2020 17:19:11 +0000 http://54.160.171.51/?p=2499 An overview on what constitutes an essential and non-essential business, essential service, and essential activity in Pinellas County, Florida.

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certain non-essential businesses must close, and that individuals should limit their movements outside the home to do only those movements necessary to obtain or provide essential services or to conduct essential activities.

What Constitutes an Essential Service, Essential Activity, or Essential Business?

You may have questions about what constitutes an essential service, essential activity, or essential business under these various orders. Below is an overview of same.

On March 17, 2020

The Governor of Florida issued Executive Order 20-68, which set forth restrictions on alcohol business sales, bars, pubs, nightclubs, beaches, and restaurants.

On March 20, 2020

The Governor entered Executive Order 20-71, which includes the following: (i) vendors licensed to sell alcohol are to suspend selling alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption (but may continue to sell alcoholic beverages in sealed containers for off-premises consumption), (ii) restaurants and bars must suspend on-premises food consumption (but may provide delivery or take-out services); and (iii) gymnasiums and fitness centers must close (but such closure does not apply to hotel amenities which have a capacity of ten persons or less, to a residential building amenity, which are interior to fire or police stations, or which are located inside a single-occupant office building).

On March 20, 2020

The Governor also entered Executive Order 20-72, which provides that health care practitioners (such as dental offices, surgical centers, and hospitals) are prohibited from providing medically unnecessary, non-urgent, or non-emergency procedures or surgeries.

On March 20, 2020

The Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners entered Resolution 20-17, which ordered that all public beaches and public beach parking were to be closed.

On March 26, 2020

The Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners’ Resolution 20-20 – otherwise known as the “Safer at Home Order” – took effect. This order contained safety directives for businesses, provided that places of public and private assembly were required to close, stated that essential businesses were permitted to remain open, and also permitted non-essential businesses to remain open so long as they were able to meet CDC guidelines for social distancing.

On April 1, 2020

The Governor issued Executive Order 20-91. This Executive Order became effective April 3, 2020, and it was subsequently amended to supersede any conflicting official action or order issued by local officials in response to COVID-19. The order is set to expire on April 30, 2020, and it provides that Executive Order 20-68 (bars, restaurants) and Executive Order 20-71 (alcohol sales, restaurants) remain in effect through the duration of Executive Order 20-52, including any extensions. Many businesses have already made the decision to have its employees work from home/work remotely during this pandemic. This is an appropriate decision under the Governor’s Executive Order. The Governor’s Executive Order 20-91 expressly states that nothing in this order prohibits individuals from working from home, and individuals are encouraged to work from home. Executive Order 20-91 orders that all persons shall limit their movements and interactions outside of their home to do only those necessary to obtain or provide essential services or conduct essential activities. The Executive Order defines “essential services” as (i) those set forth in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in its Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce, v. 2 (March 28, 2020) and any subsequent lists published, (ii) those businesses and activities as designated by Executive Order 20-89 and its attachments (which consists of a list propounded by Miami-Dade County in multiple orders), and (iii) those other “essential services” which may be added under this order with the approval of the State Coordinating Officer and in close coordination with the State Health Officer.

On April 2, 2020

The Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners held an emergency meeting and issued Resolution 20-23. This order provides that any retail business, operation, or organization (“business”) which is not within the category of “essential services” or “essential activities” pursuant to Executive Order 20-91 must close. Any businesses which continue to operate pursuant to 20-91 must – to the maximum extent possible – implement and comply with the current CDC guidance on social distancing and hazard mitigation (including personal proximity, sanitation, and hygiene). Lastly, the County Administrator has the power to issue an order closing any business which is not in compliance with this order. The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Department and Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners subsequently issued a “State of Florida & Pinellas County ‘Safer-At-Home Guidance’” which provides insight on what non-essential businesses shall close in Pinellas County under the Governor’s Executive Order 20-92 and the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners’ Order. The Guidance provides that the following non-essential businesses must close:
  • Acupuncture (unless service is under the care of a medical provider);
  • Antique stores;
  • Auction houses;
  • Automotive tint, wash, detail, and accessory businesses;
  • Beauty supply stores;
  • Bookstores;
  • Clothing and shoe retail, rental, or consignment;
  • Craft, art, and hobby supply stores;
  • Day/beauty spas, hair or nail salons, and barber shops;
  • Décor and lighting sales businesses;
  • Entertainment establishments;
  • Florist businesses;
  • Fitness, dance, pilates, and yoga studios and gyms;
  • Jewelry stores and jewelry repair businesses;
  • Massage (unless service is under the care of a medical provider);
  • Music and instrument stores; music lesson providers;
  • Museums;
  • Optical retail stores (non-prescription);
  • Painting, craft, or art studios;
  • Pet grooming businesses (including mobile and those co-located with pet retail stores);
  • Pet sales and adoptions (excluding on premises animal care);
  • Smoke, tobacco, CBD, or vape stores;
  • Spa sales businesses;
  • Sporting goods sales and repair businesses;
  • Stereo installation and sales businesses;
  • Tattoo and piercing services;
  • Toy retail stores, game, or amusement rental businesses; and
  • Vitamin stores (unless service is under the care of a medical provider).
Further, the Guidance provides that as set forth in the Governor’s Executive Order and the Pinellas Board of County Commissioners’ Order, essential services are defined as follows:
  • Banks and financial institutions;
  • Community based organizations providing meals and social services;
  • Critical trades (plumbers, electricians, exterminators, security personnel, etc.); fire and water damage restoration, appliance repair personnel, exterminators, and other service providers (such as landscape and pool maintenance service providers) who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences and other structures;
  • First responders, police and fire, jails and prisons;
  • Food and beverage (grocery stores, food banks, alcohol sales, restaurants: delivery, take-out or curbside delivery);
  • Funeral services;
  • Garbage and sanitation workers;
  • Gas stations;
  • Government operations;
  • Hardware, garden and supply stores;
  • Hospitals, clinics and other healthcare operations;
  • Hotel and lodging;
  • Human service operations;
  • Laundromats;
  • Post offices and shipping services;
  • Transportation: including airports and public transportation such as PSTA; and
  • Utilities, public works and essential infrastructure.
Lastly, the Guidance state that under the Governor’s Executive Order and the Pinellas Board of County Commissioners’ Order, essential activities include:
  • Attending religious services conducted in churches, synagogues, or houses of worship;
  • Caring for or otherwise assisting a loved one or a friend;
  • Participating in recreational activities (consistent with social distancing guidelines) such as walking, biking, hiking, fishing, golfing (golf courses may remain open) hunting, or swimming
  • Recreational boating (boat ramps, marinas, and bait/tackle shops may remain open); and
  • Taking care of pets.

Is the Safer-at-Home Guidance All-Inclusive?

While the Safer-at-Home Guidance states it is not all-inclusive, it provides a detailed overview on what constitutes an essential and non-essential business, essential service, and essential activity in Pinellas County, Florida. More local and statewide orders may follow. It is important to ensure compliance with the Governor’s Executive Orders and the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners’ Orders. Businesses who do not comply with these Orders can face an order to close. Violators can also face criminal fines or penalties: violating these orders can result in a second degree misdemeanor punishable with up to sixty days in jail and a $500 fine. Further, the Chief Judge of the Sixth Judicial Circuit entered an administrative order on March 27, 2020 announcing that that anyone who is arrested on a misdemeanor violation of the coronavirus quarantine will be held without bond at the jails in Pinellas and Pasco counties. The employment law attorneys at Battaglia, Ross, Dicus & McQuaid, P.A. hope that you remain healthy and safe during these difficult times.

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