TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis highlights the 2022 accomplishments of the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS).

Tallahassee, Fla. – As Floridians are beginning to make plans to celebrate the upcoming New Year’s Eve holiday, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is reminding citizens to stay safe by incorporating the following safety tips when celebrating the new year.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is encouraging Floridians to make sure their live Christmas trees are disposed of quickly after the holidays. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), leaving a tree up past December greatly increases the chances of a fire incident, as nearly 30 percent of Christmas tree fires occur in January.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a special holiday message urging Floridians to stay safe and to cherish the season of giving with friends and family. Also, the CFO acknowledged America’s men and women in uniform and first responders who protect our communities and our country at home and abroad. This week, the CFO also warned Floridians to take caution as temperatures drop to this weekend.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued a fire safety alert urging Floridians to follow important fire safety tips to ensure a safe holiday season. Many holiday related fires start in the kitchen, with cooking related accidents, and holiday decorations can be a major fire hazard if the proper safety precautions are not taken. With today marking the First Day of Winter and temperatures begin to drop around the state, it’s also important to be cautious when using wood burning stoves, space heaters and fireplaces. According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), more than two of every five decoration fires happen due to decorations being placed too close to a heat source and one-third of the time that heat source is a candle. Heating equipment is the leading cause of fires in U.S. homes and nearly half of all home heating fires occur in December, January, and February.

Wednesday, the State Fire Marshal and the Tallahassee Fire Department issued a reminder to people of the dangers surrounding live Christmas Trees.

In recognition of December as Identity Theft Prevention Month, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is providing Floridians with tips on how to best avoid becoming a victim of identity theft during this holiday season. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reports that there was 1.4 million reports of identity theft in 2021 alone.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement following the release of the 2022 State Debt Report from the State of Florida Division of Bond Finance. According to the report, this year Florida’s debt has decreased by $1.3 billion, increased its revenues by 17% ($8.5 billion), and maintained its excellent AAA bond rating.

Florida is planning broader steps in its fight against asset managers that offer environmental, social and governance investments, including sweeping legislation and pulling more state funds from BlackRock Inc, the state’s chief financial officer said. Lawmakers will put forward new legislation next year that will require investments to be guided only on potential returns, and will steer the state away from doing business with banks that make lending choices on anything more than customers’ ability to repay loans, Jimmy Patronis and state Representative Bob Rommel said in interviews Wednesday in Tallahassee, Florida.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis delivered testimony to the Florida House Appropriations Committee during Special Session in support of the Legislature’s efforts to reform Florida’s insurance industry.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis hosted the ‘Ringing of the Bell’ ceremony to honor Florida’s fallen firefighters. During the ceremony, 35 fallen firefighters from years 2017, 2021 and 2022 were honored and their names were inscribed on the Florida Fallen Firefighter Memorial in the Florida Capitol Courtyard.

In a ceremony in the Senate Chamber at the Florida Capitol today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis recognized members of Florida’s firefighting community for their outstanding accomplishments in the fire service industry during the 2022 Fire Service Awards. Each individual or facility was nominated and selected by various fire service organizations across Florida.

FORT Myers, Fla. – Today, the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) provided an update on Hurricane Ian recovery efforts and announced that in early 2023, the agency will deploy an Insurance Village to Southwest Florida to provide policyholders another opportunity to meet directly with insurance carriers to fully resolve outstanding storm claims.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is reminding Floridians to stay alert and beware of scams during the holiday season. Christmas, Hanukkah, and other holidays celebrated around this time of year are prime time for fraudsters and scammers to take advantage of those looking to purchase gifts or give to charity. According to the National Retail Federation, consumers spent over $889 billion during the holidays in 2021 and that number is expected to increase by 6%-8% in 2022.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis and his wife, Katie Patronis, joined members of the St. Andrew Baptist Church Center of Hope in Panama City to drop off canned goods, take a tour of their facility and encourage Floridians to give back this holiday season.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis, in a letter to the State Board of Administration (SBA), recommended that the SBA transition away from BlackRock as one of the state’s asset management firms. Last week, the CFO announced that the Florida Treasury will begin divesting $2 billion worth of assets currently under management by BlackRock.

WINTER PARK, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Ty Lamonte Hillman on charges of Organized Scheme to Defraud and four counts of Unlicensed Contracting for his alleged involvement in defrauding homeowners out of more than $146,000 following recent severe storms in the Central Florida area.

Tallahassee, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement on the call for a special session on insurance reform and hurricane recovery.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $20 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of November. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.8 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that the Florida Treasury will begin divesting $2 billion worth of assets currently under management by BlackRock. The State Treasury will immediately have Florida’s custody bank freeze approximately $1.43 billion worth of long-term securities and remove them as the manager of approximately $600 million worth of short-term overnight investments.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is reminding Floridians to stay alert and beware of scams when dealing with charitable causes on Giving Tuesday. Giving Tuesday is a national day of giving at the start of the holiday season that occurs the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. In 2021, Americans gave a total of $2.7 billion to charity, which is a 9% increase from 2020.

As Floridians begin their search for holiday shopping deals, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is warning consumers to beware of potential scams surrounding Black Friday and Cyber Monday and offers four tips to avoid becoming a victim of fraud or identity theft. This year, Black Friday consumers are expected to spend $205 on average, up from $190 in 2021, while Cyber Monday consumers are expected to spend $218 on average, up from $175 last year.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is encouraging Floridians to incorporate the following safety tips when frying a turkey this Thanksgiving. According to the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA), Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment. Additionally, the NFPA recommends you test your smoke alarm at least once a month and replace all smoke alarms in your home every 10 years.

Yesterday, the Department of Financial Services (DFS) hosted a live phone bank in Jacksonville. During the phone bank, viewers were encouraged to call in and check for unclaimed property accounts in their name. In less than 15 hours, more than 700 individual accounts were found in the Jacksonville area worth a combined total of more than $150,000. To encourage Floridians to search for unclaimed property, CFO Patronis kicked off his Holiday Money Hunt statewide yesterday. To view unclaimed amounts in your region, click here.

Today, during a meeting of the Florida Elections Canvassing Commission, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released a statement following certification of voting returns in the 2022 General Election.

With the holiday season just beginning, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is encouraging Floridians to join his Holiday Money Hunt and search to see if you or your business has Unclaimed Property in Florida. CFO Patronis is launching the Holiday Money Hunt this holiday season to spread the word and help Floridians recover and claim cash that has been unknown or lost. Currently, Florida has unclaimed property accounts with a total value of $2.5 billion. CFO Patronis is on a mission to spread holiday cheer and return every last cent back to its rightful owners. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.8 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens. For b-roll video of the Florida unclaimed property vault and a selection of unclaimed items, please click here.

Today, the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) announced the launch of the My Safe Florida Home (MSFH) program and the opening of the application process for free wind mitigation home inspections and up to $10,000 in storm mitigation grants for Florida homeowners. In October, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis directed the program to be expedited during the procurement process for home inspectors to ensure Floridians can fortify their homes quickly and obtain premium reductions as soon as possible. The agency conducted a soft-launch earlier in the month, and the agency has already received over 400 applications by homeowners for inspections. DFS encourages Floridians to take advantage of the home mitigation grant program to harden their home against storms and help lower their property insurance premiums through mandatory storm mitigation discounts.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis joined elected officials, members of the fire service community and their families at the Florida State Fire College in Ocala for a memorial event to pay tribute to Florida’s fallen firefighters. The names of 16 fallen firefighters will be etched on the Florida Fallen Firefighter Memorial at the Fire College.

Today, the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) provided information and resources for those who have coverage through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and who might be affected by Hurricane Nicole. The National Hurricane Center is expecting Nicole, now downgraded to a tropical storm, to cause up to 4 inches of rainfall in certain areas in Florida and severe storm surge and flooding.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is urging Floridians to make final preparations to homes and property ahead of Tropical Storm Nicole. Tropical Storm Nicole is expected to strengthen into a hurricane and bring heavy rain, damaging winds, storm surge and possible tornadoes to Florida’s east coast. Florida’s Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) teams stand ready to assist with Tropical Storm Nicole recovery. The State Fire Marshal’s Office oversees Florida’s US&R teams, which are deployed to aid communities that have been impacted by a natural or man-made disaster. Additionally, the Division of Investigative and Forensic Services (DIFS) detectives will be deployed as needed pre and post-storm to aid in search and rescue, recovery and to guard against consumer fraud.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – In recognition of Holocaust Education Week, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is highlighting the Department of Financial Services’ (DFS) Holocaust Victims Assistance Program. The program helps all Florida Holocaust survivors in their recovery of proceeds from insurance policies issued to Holocaust victims and restitution for Nazi-confiscated bank accounts, art and property. Holocaust Education Week is observed during the second week of November, which corresponds with the anniversary of Kristallnacht, a defining moment in the discrimination and persecution of Jewish families by the Nazis.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is urging Floridians to prepare now for Subtropical Storm Nicole expected to make landfall in Florida this week. Floridians are encouraged to follow the tips below and visit PrepareFL.com to plan accordingly for the impending storm.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Jeffery Sellers on charges of arson of a structure and resisting arrest.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis encourages Floridians to check their smoke alarms as you change your clocks when Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, November 6, at 2 a.m. According to the National Fire Protection Association, roughly three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or non-working smoke alarms. Floridians should replace batteries in all smoke alarms as needed and test them monthly to ensure they are working properly.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a letter to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg requesting the federal government work to mitigate the threat of electric vehicles (EVs) following Hurricane Ian, which caused salty storm surge waters to be shoved into the Southwest Florida coast. The CFO’s letter asks U.S. DOT to take a more proactive role in identifying storm impacted EVs and getting them off the roads, out of salvage yards and away from the general public to prevent fires.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $35 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of October. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.8 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis shared important fire safety tips to protect Floridians from fire related accidents this Halloween. According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), decorations catch fire first in approximately 800 reported home fires each year and more than one-third of these fires are started by candles.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is celebrating Halloween by encouraging Floridians to “scare up” some unclaimed property and search for money or items in their name. The CFO’s Division of Unclaimed Property currently holds more than $3 million in unclaimed property with some spooky Halloween themed names including Wolf, Grimm, Spirit, Candy, Halloween, Bones, Trick and Treat! Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.7 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Sudoeste, Fla. – Hoy, el oficial principal de finanzas (CFO) y jefe de bomberos Jimmy Patronis emitió información al público sobre los peligros de las baterías de iones de litio de incendiarse por inmersión en agua salada.

Southwest, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis released information to the public on the dangers of lithium-ion batteries risk of catching fire from submersion in saltwater.

NAPLES, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Veronica Skopp, a licensed insurance agent, for the alleged theft of more than $41,000 in insurance premiums and forgery.

WASHINGTON — A pair of Florida Republicans at the federal and state level are asking questions following reports of electric vehicle fires potentially linked to water submersion from Hurricane Ian's storm surge.

Yesterday, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis held a press conference in Cape Coral to highlight fraud prevention efforts in the wake of Hurricane Ian. During the press conference, the CFO announced that he will propose legislation, including cracking down on bad Public Adjusters by curbing their ability to take advantage of Floridians under financial duress, combatting Assignment of Benefits (AOB) abuse by eliminating the use of AOBs altogether, creating a statewide prosecutor focused solely on property insurance fraud to hold fraudsters accountable to the full extent of the law, and lastly, requesting a $3 million anti-fraud public education campaign.

Florida’s Chief Financial Officer is calling for a major overhaul in the way insurance is handled to prevent fraud in wake of Hurricane Ian.

CAPE CORAL, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis held a press conference in Cape Coral to highlight fraud prevention efforts in the wake of Hurricane Ian. During the press conference, the CFO announced that he will propose legislation, including cracking down on bad Public Adjusters by curbing their ability to take advantage of Floridians under financial duress, combatting Assignment of Benefits (AOB) abuse by eliminating the use of AOBs altogether, creating a statewide prosecutor focused solely on property insurance fraud to hold fraudsters accountable to the full extent of the law, and lastly, requesting a $3 million anti-fraud public education campaign.

CAPE CORAL, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis held a press conference in Cape Coral to highlight fraud prevention efforts in the wake of Hurricane Ian. During the press conference, the CFO announced that he will propose legislation, including cracking down on bad Public Adjusters by curbing their ability to take advantage of Floridians under financial duress and combatting Assignment of Benefits (AOB) abuse by eliminating the use of AOBs altogether.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued a letter to over 30 Electric Vehicle (EV) car manufacturers, including Tesla, Rivian, Ford, GM, and others, calling on the companies to "step-up, demonstrate leadership and partner with the State of Florida and local officials in this recovery." In the letter, the CFO made demands of EV manufacturers to do more in helping firefighters mitigate risks associated with battery fires caused by salty storm surge waters from Hurricane Ian. The CFO also asked nine questions of the manufactures to assess and identify methods to limit the risk of EV fires. The letter comes on the heels of a communication from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) confirming that saltwater can lead to fires with EV batteries.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $22 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of September. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.7 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

Tallahassee, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is highlighting efforts to crack down on fraud and unlicensed activity following the impacts of Hurricane Ian.

FORT MYERS, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued a public service announcement asking Electric Vehicle (EV) manufactures to help address EV vehicle fires following the impacts of Hurricane Ian in Southwest Florida.

PUNTA GORDA, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis provided information to Florida residents impacted by Hurricane Ian regarding their rights when working with a public adjuster on their insurance claim. A public adjuster is anyone, other than a licensed attorney, who accepts compensation in exchange for directly or indirectly helping you investigate, prepare, or file an insurance claim. Ultimately, the fee a public adjuster charges you comes out of the claims check owed to you by your insurance company. Consumers should consider carefully whether this cost is worth the benefit to them during the insurance claims process.

In the wake of Hurricane Ian, Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis is expressing new concern over electric vehicles. He penned a letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration sounding alarms on the dangerous mix of lithium batteries and storm surge.

SOUTHWEST, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced that he has more than 20,000 carbon monoxide detectors available to Floridians impacted by Hurricane Ian. Last week, the CFO issued a Public Service Announcement on generator safety. To receive a carbon monoxide detector, please visit the Initial Payment Center in Fort Myers or Port Charlotte. Additionally, fire inspectors from the State Fire Marshal’s office and detectives from the Division of Investigative and Forensic Services (DIFS) are also working to hand out carbon monoxide detectors to impacted Floridians.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued a letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) requesting information on the fire risks associated with saltwater on electric vehicles (EVs). In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, the CFO expressed concerns that fire teams may need more support to prepare for inevitable fires and expressed that it may not be a question of “if,” but “when.” See the full letter attached.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauded the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) for waiving the replacement fee for driver licenses, identification cards, vehicle registrations and titles, vessel registrations and titles, and temporary parking permits in response to Hurricane Ian. Additionally, for Floridians impacted by Hurricane Ian, FLHSMV has multiple mobile Florida Licensing on Wheels units in Lee, Charlotte and Sarasota counties providing driver license and motor vehicle services.

Collier County, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis joined North Collier Fire Rescue to assess response activities related to Hurricane Ian. During a tour of the region, the fire department responded to a fire by an electric vehicle (EV). Watch b-roll HERE.

SOUTHWEST, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis directed the Division of Unclaimed Property to prioritize the expedited processing of claims for individuals who are located in the counties most severely affected by Hurricane Ian. Giving priority status to these claims will accelerate the possible return of funds to those in the affected counties so that they can utilize these resources to put their lives back together.

FORT MYERS, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued a public service announcement warning Floridians impacted by Hurricane Ian to beware of high-pressure salesmen going door to door. The CFO warns not to sign anything and to call 1-877-MY-FL-CFO or visit MyFloricaCFO.com.

SOUTHWEST, Fla. – Following the impacts of Hurricane Ian, the Department of Financial Services (DFS) has deployed two Initial Payment Centers in Fort Myers and Port Charlotte, where insurance carriers will be on hand to assist residents with the insurance claims process. The Port Charlotte Initial Payment Center is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and the Fort Myers Initial Payment Center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Fort Myers Initial Payment Center is part of Governor DeSantis’ Disaster Recovery Center (DRC), which is a one-stop-shop and collocated with more than 10 agencies to provide services to individuals and businesses impacted by Hurricane Ian.

FORT MYERS, Fla. – Hoy, el Oficial principal de finanzas (CFO) Jimmy Patronis anunció que sus equipos antifraude de la División de Servicios de Investigación y Forenses (DIFS) han tenido más de 1.700 interacciones con el público sobre el fraude posterior a un desastre después del huracán Ian. El viernes pasado, el CFO anunció que desplegó seis equipos en áreas impactadas en Charlotte, Hardee, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole y Volusia. Estos equipos están activamente buscando áreas impactadas por la tormenta para disuadir el fraude, detener a los estafadores y proteger a los consumidores. Cada equipo consiste de seis oficiales de fraude que trabajan para educar e informar al público sobre señales de fraude y para asegurar que los contratistas estén siguiendo todas las leyes aplicables de Florida mientras realizan reparaciones. Los equipos también rastrearán los casos abiertos y llevarán a los estafadores ante la justicia.

SOUTHWEST, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a letter to GoFundMe requesting that they assist in promoting the Florida Disaster Fund website, which is the state of Florida’s official private fund established to assist Florida communities during times of emergency or disaster. Additionally, following the Surfside Condo collapse there were 21 fraudulent sites pulled down from GoFundMe’s website, and the CFO is insisting that they steer those who are trying to do a good thing in a time of disaster in the right direction and provide full transparency to where donations are going. To contribute to the Florida Disaster Fund, please visit www.FloridaDisasterFund.org or text DISASTER to 20222.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that his Division of Investigative and Forensic Services (DIFS) Anti-Fraud Strike Teams have made more than 1,700 engagements with the public on post-disaster fraud following Hurricane Ian. Last Friday, the CFO announced that he deployed six teams to impacted areas in Charlotte, Hardee, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole and Volusia county. These teams are actively canvassing storm impacted areas to deter fraud, arrest scammers and protect consumers. Each team consists of six fraud officers working to educate and inform the public on signs of fraud and to ensure contractors are following all applicable Florida laws while conducting repairs. The teams will also track leads to open cases and bring fraudsters to justice.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued a public service announcement on generator safety. Additionally, the National Fire Protection Association has also issued important generator safety tips.

Port Charlotte, Fla. – Following the impacts of Hurricane Ian, the Department of Financial Services (DFS) will deploy an Initial Payment Center, in Port Charlotte, where insurance carriers will be on hand to assist residents with the insurance claims process. The Charlotte County Initial Payment Center will begin operation TODAY, Tuesday, October 4, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

SOUTHWEST, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis traveled to areas devastated by Hurricane Ian to assess recovery operations by Florida Urban Search & Rescue (US&R) Teams. The CFO announced that 14 US&R Teams deployed to Southwest Florida are conducting lifesaving missions in Lee County along the coastline and barrier islands. Another three teams are prepositioned in Central Florida to prepare for potential lifesaving operations resulting from rising waters.

Tallahassee, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced that five more Urban Search & Rescue (US&R) Teams are being deployed to Florida, for a total of 16 teams that are working lifesaving missions related to Hurricane Ian. The newly deployed teams include New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Missouri, and Massachusetts. The deployed contingent will add to Florida’s six US&R Teams and five teams from other states, including two Virginia teams, and ones from Texas, Ohio and Indiana.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued a public service announcement encouraging donations be made to the Florida Disaster Fund. To contribute, please visit www.FloridaDisasterFund.org or text DISASTER to 20222.

Matlacha, Fla. – Following the impacts of Hurricane Ian, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that the Division of Investigative and Forensic Services (DIFS) will deploy six Anti-Fraud Strike Teams to protect vulnerable residents from fraud.

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to approve Florida’s request for a waiver allowing policyholders within the program to access a portion of their claims without going through the full claims process. This waiver was issued following a joint request by the offices of Governor Ron DeSantis and CFO Jimmy Patronis.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis warns individuals and businesses looking to contribute to Hurricane Ian relief efforts to be cautious of imposter GoFundMe style crowdfunding websites and charity scams and encourages Floridians to donate to the Florida Disaster Fund.

PUNTA GORDA, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced the deployment of 11 Urban Search & Rescue Teams to Southwest Florida. Following a briefing with Governor DeSantis at the Division of Emergency Management Office in Tallahassee, the CFO traveled to Southwest Florida to assess Hurricane Ian response operations.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Early Thursday morning, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced the deployment of four Urban Search and Rescue Teams (TF-1 and TF2) and two Virginia Teams (VA-1 and VA-2) to Southwest Florida to begin life-saving missions related to Hurricane Ian. The teams deployed out of Fort Lauderdale to Fort Myers.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued a public service announcement urging Floridians in evacuation zones to evacuate now. Hurricane Ian is currently a category 3 and is anticipated to potentially make landfall as a category 4. Please visit PrepareFL.com to find the resources you need to make last minute preparations to keep you and your family safe before, during, and after the storm.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis and the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) provided new updates on Department activities regarding Hurricane Ian.

Today, following a briefing from the Statewide Emergency Operations Center (EOC), Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is urging Floridians in the path of Hurricane Ian to take this storm seriously and make final preparations for landfall immediately. The CFO’s PrepareFL.com website is a one-stop-shop for disaster-related resources to aid Floridians before, during, and after the storm.

Today, the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) provided information and resources for those who have coverage through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and who might be affected by Hurricane Ian. The National Hurricane Center is expecting Ian, currently a category 3, to cause up to 15 inches of rainfall in parts of south Florida and severe storm surge and flooding.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis and the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) provided new updates on Department activities regarding Hurricane Ian.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued a public service announcement urging Floridians to prepare for post-storm insurance claims now by taking photo and video evidence of the outside and inside of their homes before and after the storm. Tropical Storm Ian is expected to become a major hurricane prior to making landfall. Please visit PrepareFL.com to find the resources you need to keep you and your family safe before, during, and after the storm.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is recognizing September as National Preparedness Month (NPM). NPM is recognized each September to promote family, community, and nationwide disaster planning year-round. The 2022 theme is “A Lasting Legacy.” As Invest 98L has a 90% chance of development over the next 5 days, the CFO is urging Floridians to begin preparing for a potential extreme weather event as early as next week.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement following recent media reports that credit card companies are going to start tracking gun and ammunition sales. The reports state that major credit card companies such as Visa, Mastercard and American Express have decided to apply a new sales code to distinguish firearm purchases at U.S. gun stores. Additionally, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals recently ruled on a Texas bill (NetChoice V. Ken Paxton), establishing that major corporations, including banking institutions, do not have a right to limit American’s constitutional rights.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released draft legislation that he will pursue for the upcoming legislative session to fund efforts to combat IRS overreach. The legislation would incentivize Florida small businesses to fight back against the IRS by making them financially whole if retaliation is proven. This legislation represents another pillar of the CFO’s Four Part “IRS Protection Plan to Fight Back Against a Shakedown Targeting Florida.”

Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released the following statement today, in response to the news surrounding the confirmation that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis relocated two planes of illegal immigrants from Florida to Martha’s Vineyard:

Yesterday, Katie Patronis, Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis' wife, sat down with News 13’s Amy Hoyt to discuss her battle with breast cancer and her treatment and recovery. Mrs. Patronis is now an advocate for breast cancer awareness.

Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a proclamation recognizing the month of September as Life Insurance Awareness Month. This proclamation highlights the importance of life insurance, the sense of security that it provides, and urges Floridians to learn more about the resources available to increase their awareness of life insurance and its benefits.

Florida’s elected Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis has outlined a superlative plan to push back against IRS lawlessness that, if followed by multiple states, would echo Madison’s successful recipe for interposing against federal tyranny.

Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released draft legislation that he will pursue for the upcoming legislative session to yank licenses for IRS vendors who discriminate. The legislation would establish anti-discrimination provisions on state licensed debt collectors. This legislation represents another pillar of the CFO’s Four Part “IRS Protection Plan to Fight Back Against a Shakedown Targeting Florida.”

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis urges Floridians to prepare now as Florida enters the peak of the 2022 Hurricane Season on Saturday, September 10th. CFO Patronis’ Prepare Florida website serves as a one-stop-shop for disaster preparedness information and tips to help Floridians ensure they are prepared.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – In recognition of September as Suicide Prevention Month, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued a proclamation addressing the mental health struggles faced by many Floridians; especially first responders. The proclamation recognizes the high level of attempted suicide among firefighters and the large rates of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Florida’s first responders due to their frequent exposure to significant traumatic incidents incurred in the line of duty.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regarding recent reports that the agency exposed confidential information of more than 120,000 taxpayers online. The data shared reportedly came from Form 990-T, a business tax return document used by tax-exempt entities, including individual retirement accounts, to report and pay income tax on income generated from certain investments or income unrelated to their exempt purpose.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $32 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of August. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.7 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released draft legislation that he will pursue for the upcoming legislative session protecting Florida small businesses and individuals from political targeting by IRS agents. The legislation would establish civil penalties against IRS agents who unlawfully target Floridians in retaliation for their political ideology, affiliations, or beliefs. This legislation represents another pillar of the CFO’s Four Part “IRS Protection Plan to Fight Back Against a Shakedown Targeting Florida.”

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis warns Floridians to be on the lookout for scams this Labor Day Weekend when shopping online for holiday sales. To protect consumers, CFO Patronis encourages Floridians to follow tips from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for safe online shopping. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that last year, Florida ranked 5th in fraud and 10th in identity theft reports nationwide.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, during a meeting of the Florida Elections Canvassing Commission, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released a statement following the certification of voting returns in the 2022 Florida Primary Election.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis made a friendly wager on Twitter with the Louisiana State Treasurer John Schroder ahead of the Allstate Louisiana Kickoff football game between Florida State University and Louisiana State University on Sunday, September 4, 2022. CFO Patronis wagered a fresh Florida key lime pie if the LSU Tigers win. Treasurer Schroder responded on Twitter by wagering a Florida State colored Louisiana king cake if FSU wins.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released legislative text as part of his Four Part “IRS Protection Plan to Fight Back Against a Shakedown Targeting Florida.” Recently, the CFO announced he would work to pass legislation for the upcoming session to fight back against the IRS, which is expected to grow by 87,000 personnel through an $80 billion appropriation of taxpayer money from the Inflation Reduction Act President Biden signed into law in August. Additionally, the CFO said his office will create an IRS transparency site where members of the public can report potential discrimination and targeting activities by IRS agents. The bill text is below and

MIAMI, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Ivan Alberto Camacho Rincon by the Division of Investigative & Forensic Services, Bureau of Insurance Fraud for his involvement in an alleged prescription invoice fraud scheme totaling more than $367,000. Rincon was taken into custody by Miami Bureau of Insurance Fraud detectives with the assistance of the Sunny Isles Beach Police Department.

CFO Jimmy Patronis said, “It doesn’t matter how clever you think your scheme may be, if you commit fraud in Florida, you will be caught and brought to justice. Staging accidents is incredibly dangerous and fraud like this costs every Floridian in the form of higher auto insurance premiums. As your CFO, it is my mission to crack down on fraud. Since I’ve been in office my detectives have made more than 5,000 fraud arrests in Florida. In this state, if you commit fraud, you will be found and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. If you or someone you know is suspicious of fraud, report it immediately at FraudFreeFlorida.com.”

TAMPA, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that $1.95 million was generated by the state's unclaimed property auction in Tampa this weekend, including the sale of 460 lots consisting of more than 63,000 items. Some of the items auctioned included an 8.17-carat yellow diamond ring, a William Shakespeare Fourth Folio dated 1685, and a 16 oz. gold bar. Hasta que alguien los reclama, los fondos no reclamados se depositan en el fondo escolar de la Florida en beneficio de la educación pública. There is no statute of limitations and consumers have the right to claim their unclaimed funds at any time, at no cost.

DAYTONA, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced that members of his Division of Investigative and Forensic Services’ (DIFS) Bomb Squad Team were deployed to Daytona to help ensure safety during the Coke Zero Sugar 400 this weekend. The DIFS’ Bomb Squad consists of 13 Certified Bomb Technicians and three Apprentices. DIFS also has explosive detection K-9s that have been deployed in support of the race.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted the Florida Unclaimed Property Auction this weekend in Tampa, with the auction preview beginning today, August 26 at 9 AM EST and the auction beginning on Saturday, August 27 at 9 AM EST. The auction will be held live and in-person at the Holiday Inn Tampa Westshore Airport, 700 N Westshore Boulevard, Tampa, Florida 33609.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis said Florida must push back against “Environmental, Social, and Governance” standards – known as ESG – which is beginning to spread throughout the global insurance market. The CFO made the comments at a meeting of the Florida Cabinet. The CFO said the state entity charged with regulating insurers, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (FOIR), must assess the role of ESG in insurance markets, so Florida can better fight back.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, in recognition of the 30-year anniversary of Hurricane Andrew, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlights important hurricane preparedness tips to ensure Floridians are prepared for the next major storm that takes aim at our state. Hurricane Andrew made landfall south of Miami on August 24, 1992, with 165 mph winds, and a 16.9-foot storm surge that caused the loss of 65 lives, 60,000 homes destroyed and more than $25 billion in damage. At the time, Hurricane Andrew was only the third Category 5 hurricane to land on U.S. soil.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, during a meeting of the Florida Cabinet, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis proclaimed, October 9-15, 2022, as Fire Prevention Week with a Cabinet Resolution highlighting the State of Florida’s interest in fostering public safety and fire prevention. The theme for the 2022 Fire Prevention Week is “Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape.”

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, during a meeting of the Florida Cabinet, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis presented a resolution celebrating the 60th anniversary of the NASA Kennedy Space Center and its role in space exploration and as a global leader in scientific discovery. The Kennedy Space Center employs over 2,000 civil servants, 6,100 government contractors, and had a generated $5.25 billion economic impact in 2021.

TALLAHASSEE. Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis presented a resolution honoring Florida Supreme Court Justice Alan Lawson and his service to the State of Florida. Justice Lawson has served an impressive 21-year judicial career and 6-years with the Florida Supreme Court.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis said Florida must push back against “Environmental, Social, and Governance” standards – known as ESG – which is beginning to spread throughout the global insurance market. The CFO made the comments at a meeting of the Florida Cabinet. The CFO said the state entity charged with regulating insurers, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (FOIR), must assess the role of ESG in insurance markets, so Florida can better fight back.

In the midst of an immigration crisis and violent crime overtaking almost every major American city, the geniuses in Washington all got together at the Capitol Hill Club and decided what we need most is 87,000 more IRS agents! This could not be a more ignorant, lost and frankly insulting "response" to the crises facing the American people.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Jurand Wells by the Department of Financial Services, Bureau of Fire, Arson, and Explosives Investigations (BFAEI) on charges of Arson and Possession of a Fire Bomb. Mr. Wells was taken into custody with the assistance of the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis warns Floridians of recently announced Apple security flaw that could be plaguing many of their products. Apple has explained that the flaw could leave iPhones, iPads and Macs vulnerable to hackers who could potentially take complete control of the device. Consumers have been urged to update their devices to potentially avoid security hacks.

TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of thirteen unlicensed contractors in Pasco County. The joint operation between CFO Patronis’ fraud detectives, the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, and the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) was launched to address unlicensed contractors who failed to obtain workers’ compensation coverage.

We’re going to force all of these new IRS agents to be licensed, so we know who they are. And those fees, we are going to create a fund in order to create a defense mechanism for those being persecuted. And if we see the same thing we saw in 2013, where they targeted Tea Party groups, where they admitted they targeted Tea Party groups, we are going to create criminal charges to go after them. We’ve got to protect our citizens, because the citizens of the state of Florida spend their money better than Washington does.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Hoy, el Oficial principal de finanzas (CFO) Jimmy Patronis emitió la siguiente declaración sobre presidente Biden firmando la Ley de Reducción de la Inflación, que incluye una provisión para financiar a más de 87,000 nuevos agentes del Servicio de Impuestos Internos (IRS). La semana pasada, el CFO recomendó cuatro cambios legislativos que protegerían a las pequeñas empresas de las auditorías del IRS de gran tamaño y su discriminación política en el Estado del Sol.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on President Biden’s signing of the “Inflation Reduction Act,” which includes a provision to fund over 87,000 new Internal Revenue Service (IRS) agents. Last week, the CFO recommended four legislative changes that would protect small businesses from the audits of the supersized IRS and their political discrimination in the Sunshine State.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the passage of the “Inflation Reduction Act” from the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation includes a provision to fund over 87,000 new IRS agents. The CFO recommends four legislative changes that would protect small businesses from the audits of the supersized IRS and their political discrimination in the Sunshine State.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a letter to credit ratings agency Equifax regarding a recent coding error that led to possibly millions of consumers’ credit scores being inaccurately reported to potential lenders. The Wall Street Journal recently reported that Equifax sent the erroneous scores on people applying for auto loans, mortgages and credit cards to banks and nonbank lenders big and small—including JPMorgan Chase & Co., Wells Fargo & Co. and Ally Financial Inc. The scores were sometimes off by 20 points or more in either direction, enough to alter the interest rates consumers were offered or to result in their applications being rejected altogether.

PERRY, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Joshua Gipson for two counts of arson, two counts of Burglary, one count of Criminal Mischief, one count of Larceny, and Violation of Probation after allegedly setting fire to the Crosspoint Baptist Church. Mr. Gipson was tracked and located via K-9, placed into the custody of the Perry Police Department, and subsequently confessed to the crimes after being mirandized.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis warns Floridians of a recent cryptocurrency scam known as “pig butchering” or “pig slaughtering” in which victims are enticed to put more and more money into a fake cryptocurrency investment scheme only to “fatten them up” before a scammer disappears with vast sums of their cryptocurrency. This cryptocurrency scam is reportedly most often perpetrated on dating sites and social media as a new form of a romance scam.

BRADENTON, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of eight unlicensed contractors in Manatee County. The joint operation between CFO Patronis’ fraud detectives and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office was launched to address unlicensed contractors who were both working without a required contractor license and doing construction work without having workers' compensation insurance, or a workers' compensation insurance exemption(s).

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $26 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of July. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.7 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released the following statement in support of Governor Ron DeSantis’ efforts to fight back against Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) ratings being pushed on America’s economy and investment strategies by economic activists. The CFO issued a letter to the State Board of Administration (SBA) in June to set expectations that ESG ratings may not be used for Florida investments.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement regarding the Office of Insurance Regulation’s (OIR) announced plan to establish a temporary reinsurance arrangement with Citizens Property Insurance Corporation and certain insurers. The arrangement between OIR and Citizens Property Insurance Corporation would serve to help stabilize coverage provided by certain carriers that Demotech is in the process of reevaluating. The CFO also applauded the Governor for his work in protecting Florida policyholders.

ORLANDO, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis delivered remarks at the 2022 Florida Sheriffs Association Summer Conference and thanked Florida’s Sheriffs for their service and commitment to the people of Florida. Also, the CFO recognized and congratulated Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd for his 50 years of dedicated service

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement regarding the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) order to phone companies to block robocalls about scam auto warranties. In February, CFO Patronis issued a letter to the Chairwoman of the FCC to express concern regarding robocalls and urge the agency to require all cellphone carriers to provide free spam blocking services to all customers. The CFO also supported legislation this year, signed into law by Governor DeSantis, to crack down on unwanted telemarketing calls in Florida.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is highlighting and encouraging Floridians to use the 2022 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, beginning Monday July 25, 2022,and extending through Sunday, August 7, 2022 to save money on school supplies.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis provided an update on the progress of new property insurance fraud squads deployed along the I-4 corridor. In December 2021, CFO Patronis announced the deployment of two new insurance fraud fighting squads consisting of 12 sworn law enforcement personnel dedicated to combating property insurance fraud in Florida. While based in Central Florida, these squads have the authority to investigate significant cases throughout the state.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the U.S. Labor Department’s report that inflation hit 9.1% in June; another four-decade high. CFO Patronis’ issued his comments on twitter.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis warns Floridians who are shopping online during Amazon Prime Day to beware of online scams and learn ways to protect themselves from fraud. Prime Day is a two-day online sales event starting Today, Tuesday, July 12 that provides Amazon customers various discounts on a variety of products. To protect consumers while they shop online, CFO Patronis encourages consumers to follow tips from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for safe online shopping.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the Florida Division of Treasury earned $412.4 Million in interest during the 2021-22 Fiscal Year. The top priority of the Division of Treasury is to protect taxpayer dollars, while being good stewards of operational monies and financial assets. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, the Division of Treasury has earned more than $2.8 billion in interest.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is highlighting the Department of Financial Services’ (DFS) Holocaust Victims Assistance Program which returned more than $15 million to Florida Holocaust survivors during Fiscal Year 2021-22. The Department’s program aids Florida Holocaust survivors seeking to recover proceeds from insurance policies issued to Holocaust victims, restitution for Nazi-confiscated bank accounts, looted art, and property. In addition, the program assists eligible Florida Holocaust survivors in obtaining free home health care and emergency financial assistance for medical care, food, and utilities.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, in honor of July as Military Consumer Protection Month, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is encouraging the more than 65,000 active-duty servicemembers that call Florida home, to beware of fraud and provides tips on how to avoid scams. Experts say that Florida ranks 5th in fraud reports and 10th in identity theft reports nationwide. Members of all branches of the U.S. military are often targeted by fraudsters and predatory lending practices.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a report from the Department of Financial Services (DFS) outlining how Florida’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) outpaced the nation and that total inflows to the Sunshine State contributed more than $23 billion in Adjusted Gross Income to Florida’s economy.

TAMPA, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Angela Ippolito Duncan, owner of Ybor Medical Center for allegedly planning and participating in staged car accidents to submit more than $970,000 in fake accident injury automobile insurance claims.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $20 million in unclaimed property has been returned to Floridians during the month of June 2022. The Division of Unclaimed Property returned more than $388 million to Floridians during the fiscal year that ended June 30, a new annual record. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.7 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released the following statement on Unilever reversing their boycott of selling Ben & Jerry’s products in Israel. Unilever, the parent company of Ben & Jerry’s, was placed on the Scrutinized Companies that Boycott Israel list by CFO Patronis and the State Board of Administration’s Board of Trustees in 2021 for limiting commercial relations with Israel and Israel-controlled territories.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the kick-off of Florida’s Home Hardening Sales Tax Exemption (July 1, 2022 – June 31, 2024); a two-year sales tax exemption on the retail sales of items like impact-resistant windows, doors, and garage doors. CFO Patronis championed this initiative during the 2022 Legislative Session, which allows Florida homeowners to harden their homes against storms while making them eligible for savings on their insurance premiums. Additionally, the CFO is also proud to highlight the start of Freedom Week (July 1-7th), a tax-free holiday on the purchase of most outdoor and recreational items.

BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — A local firefighter in a court battle to get coverage for PTSD treatment is getting support from the state’s Chief Financial Officer and Fire Marshal.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is highlighting Fourth of July safety tips as a reminder to be safe while celebrating the holiday with friends and family. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that more than 19,500 reported fires are started by fireworks annually and children between the ages of 10-14 years old saw the highest rate of fireworks injuries.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, in recognition of PTSD Awareness Day, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is raising awareness on the mental health challenges that first responders face and the continual need to provide these men and women with the PTSD benefits they deserve. Last week, CFO Patronis filed an Amicus Brief in support of a Brevard County firefighter who was unlawfully denied insurance coverage related to PTSD benefits.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on Governor DeSantis signing House Bill 1563. This legislation provides a new homestead exemption for classroom teachers, law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, child welfare professionals, and active-duty military.

SURFSIDE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the Surfside condo collapse.

TALLAHASSE, Fla.—Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is warning Floridians of scam artists taking advantage of the federal student loan repayment pause issued by the U.S. Department of Education. The federal student loan repayment program was suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic which has since been extended until August 31, 2022. Scammers have been using these extensions to contact loan borrowers and promising them total loan forgiveness or offering forgiveness programs for which they do not qualify.

Tallahassee, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on an Amicus Curiae Brief submitted by the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) in support of Brevard County firefighter, Roger Williams and his battle to secure job-induced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) benefits under Florida’s Workers’ Compensation laws. In 2021, Williams filed for insurance coverage related to PTSD benefits and was unlawfully denied. The brief was submitted by DFS to Florida’s First District Court of Appeal on Thursday, June 16, 2022.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis warns parents, caregivers and loved ones to never leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle especially as a stifling heat wave impacts much of the state. In 2021, 23 children died in hot car related tragedies including three from Florida. Four deaths have been reported in 2022.

No, it isn't your imagination, or just some silly term. Businesses are actively shrinking packages while maintaining the same sticker prices at many popular grocery stores and restaurants. The strategy, while subtle, is known as "Shrinkflation." And it can cost consumers a fortune without them even realizing it. Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis issued a statement this week, warning Floridians of the emerging trend.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is alerting Florida consumers to a recent trend in the purchase of everyday consumer products called “Shrinkflation”. Shrinkflation is the practice of reducing the size of a product while maintaining its sticker price, a form of hidden inflation. Although not a new practice, shrinkflation often accompanies times of high inflation in the economy.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the U.S. Labor Department’s report that inflation hit 8.6% in May, which is a four-decade high. The CFO highlighted Governor Ron DeSantis’ actions in fighting inflation, including the $200 million gas tax cut, which will benefit Florida residents during the lowest tourism season of the year.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to raise concerns on supply chain issues impacting hurricane response and post-storm recovery efforts in Florida.

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis held a press conference in Tampa, Tuesday morning to highlight the Home Hardening Tax Exemption Initiative.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to the Florida State Board of Administration (SBA) requesting their assessment on the use of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) ratings by investment managers and possible violations of Florida law related to discrimination towards Israel.

TAMPA, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted the Florida Home Hardening Initiative, a two-year sales tax exemption on the retail sales of items like impact-resistant windows, doors and garage doors. Championed by CFO Patronis and signed into law by Governor DeSantis, the sales tax exemption allows Florida homeowners to harden their homes against storms while making them eligible to save money on their insurance premiums. At a press conference in Tampa today, the CFO was joined by representatives of PGT Innovations, a Florida-based manufacturer of impact-resistant building products.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauded Governor Ron DeSantis for signing House Bill 749, Fraud Prevention. The legislation provides various fraud protections for consumers including provisions streamlining the cancelation of subscription services, the implementation of digital insurance cards, cracks down on unwanted telemarketing calls, and provides measures to hold unlicensed insurance adjusters accountable.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on Governor DeSantis signing House Bill 615, Human Trafficking. This legislation requires the Florida Alliance to End Human Trafficking to develop training specifically for fire safety inspectors to recognize and report human trafficking. The bill also allows such training to be eligible for the continuing education credits for a fire safety inspector to renew their certification.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is providing important storm recovery resources as South Florida residents work to recover from severe flooding from Tropical Cyclone One that passed through the area last night.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis urges Floridians to prepare now as the National Hurricane Center predicts that Tropical Cyclone One, which has the potential to soon become a Tropical Storm, will bring dangerous weather conditions to South Florida as soon as tonight. Experts predicted that heavy rain and winds will affect portions of Central Florida, South Florida, and the Florida Keys with considerable flash and urban flooding possible.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $36 million in unclaimed property had been returned to Floridians during the month of May. The Division of Unclaimed Property has returned more than $368 million to Floridians this fiscal year alone, a new annual record. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.6 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released the following statement upon the Governor’s signing of Florida’s 2022-23 Freedom First Budget. With the Governor’s signature, the Legislature provided historic funding in support of Florida’s Urban Search & Rescue Teams, resources to fight fraud and rising insurance rates, and funding to further support firefighters and law enforcement personnel.

FT. MYERS, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis was joined by members of Florida Urban Search & Rescue (US&R) Task Force 6 in Ft. Myers to urge Floridians to prepare for disasters now before the next hurricane takes aim at Florida. There are a total of eight US&R teams statewide that are immediately deployed to aid communities that have been impacted by a natural or man-made disaster. The 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season started June 1st and experts recently predicted an above-normal hurricane season with the possibility of up to 21 named storms and six major hurricanes.

MIAMI - Today, on the first day of the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis was joined by members of Urban Search & Rescue (US&R) Florida Task Force 2 and Mayor Francis Suarez in Miami to urge Floridians to prepare for disasters now before the next hurricane takes aim at Florida. There are a total of eight US&R teams statewide that are immediately deployed to aid communities that have been impacted by a natural or man-made disaster. Experts recently predicted an above-normal 2022 Hurricane Season with the possibility of up to 21 named storms and six major hurricanes.

Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis released a report on Tuesday highlighting the resiliency of Florida’s economy during the COVID-19 pandemic. “While we had a sense that Governor DeSantis’ willingness to fight back against lockdowns led to more wealth and opportunities in our state – we now have the data to back it up,” Patronis said.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis encourages Floridians to start preparing for hurricane season now as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) predicts an above-normal hurricane season. NOAA’s outlook for the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season, which extends from June 1 to November 30, forecasts a likely range of 14 to 21 named storms, of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes, including 3 to 6 major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher). The CFO is also highlighting his PrepareFL.com website as a one-stop-shop for hurricane preparedness information and resources.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a report from the Department of Financial Services entitled “Florida’s Economic Resilience,” which outlines how Florida’s economy outpaced the nation as a result of the anti-lockdown policies of Governor Ron DeSantis.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, as the Florida Legislature convened a special session on property insurance reform, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis signed a proclamation recognizing the week of May 23-27 as Contractor Fraud Awareness Week, in partnership with the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). NICB leadership including Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Tim Slater, Director of Field Operations for the Southeast Region Charlie Worsham, and Director of Government Affairs Eric De Campos joined the CFO in Tallahassee today to accept the proclamation.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis toured the site of the Chabad of Tallahassee fire with Israeli Consul General Maor Elbaz-Starinsky and Rabbi Schneur Oirechman. CFO’s Division of Investigative and Forensic Services (DIFS) is currently conducting a comprehensive fire investigation to determine the cause and origin of the fire.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement on the opening day of the Special Session on Insurance Reform. The CFO applauded the Legislature for proposing to expand and bolster the CFO’s Home Hardening priority through the $150 million My Safe Florida Home proposal.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, in the run up to the special session on insurance reform, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that he is issuing a letter to Florida State Attorneys to encourage them to help fight insurance fraud in the state. The CFO’s Division of Investigative and Forensic Services (DIFS) investigates insurance fraud and works together with prosecutors statewide to present fraud cases for successful prosecution.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, in the run up to the special session on insurance reform, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a letter to the Florida Bar to encourage them to hold unethical attorneys accountable for unscrupulous business practices involving property insurance lawsuits and the use of Assignment of Benefits (AOB).

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis cautions Floridians to be aware that credit bureaus can sell their data to lenders without their consent. Credit bureaus are selling “trigger leads,” whereby lenders purchase lists of data on consumers who have credit characteristics that the lender desires to target. When consumers apply for loans and their credit is run, their information can quickly be sold by credit bureaus to lenders looking to make unsolicited offers. Recent reports say some lenders are making unsolicited phone calls to consumers and are being misleading about who they are, which exposes consumers to identity theft.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, leaders from throughout Florida applauded Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis on his recently announced anti-fraud legislative proposals, which are aimed at cracking down on fraud, fighting premium increases, and helping lawmakers as they craft legislation for the upcoming special session. This is what they’re saying…

TAMPA, Fla. - Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis called on lawmakers to pass anti-fraud initiatives during their special session on insurance later this month.

TAMPA, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis held a press conference to announce five legislative proposals targeting fraud that he will pursue for the upcoming special session on insurance reform. The CFO was joined by President and CEO of Citizens Insurance Barry Gilway, where Citizens Insurance also announced a settlement related to insurance fraud that cost the state-backed insurer millions. The press conference was held at the Department of Financial Services’ (DFS), Division of Investigative and Forensic Services (DIFS) office in Tampa.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the Governor’s signature of HB 7071 related to Taxation. The tax cut bill includes the CFO’s priority “Home Hardening” initiative, which eliminates sales taxes on certain products for homeowners to “harden” their homes for storms. In many circumstances, the investments allow policyholders to mitigate, or even reduce, their homeowners insurance.

OCOEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis awarded over $112,000 in cancer decontamination equipment grant funding to thirteen fire departments in the Central Florida area. The Cancer Decontamination Grant Program within the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) helps to protect the health and safety of firefighters by providing financial aid to mitigate exposure to hazardous, cancer-causing chemicals.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that over $30 million in unclaimed property had been returned to Floridians during the month of April. The Division of Unclaimed Property has returned more than $331 million to Floridians this fiscal year alone. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.6 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Florida citizens.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, in recognition of Hurricane Preparedness Week, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is highlighting hurricane preparedness tips and resources to aid Floridians with their disaster plans as the 2022 Hurricane Season begins June 1st.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is highlighting the Florida Fraud Fighter Reward Program in an effort to increase fraud tips and crack down on insurance fraud statewide. The Florida Fraud Fighter Reward Program was established in October 1999 to encourage and reward up to $25,000 to qualified individuals who report information on suspected insurance fraud that leads to an arrest and conviction.

CANTONMENT, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Cody Lee Tullis after allegedly starting a fire on the exterior of an occupied apartment in Cantonment, Florida.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released the following statement applauding Governor Ron DeSantis who issued a call for a special session to address property insurance reforms in Florida.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on Elon Musk acquiring Twitter.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is cautioning Floridians about a major rise in fraud losses nationwide and offering tips to prevent scams. Recent data from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) revealed that reported fraud losses spiked 70 percent in 2021 in comparison to 2020; costing American consumers more than $5.8 billion nationwide. The FTC received more than 156,000 fraud reports from Floridians in 2021, with identity theft the most reported fraud category in the state.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis applauded Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission for extending the 2022 Gulf Red Snapper recreational fishing season to 57 days, the longest season since the state assumed management of red snapper. The 2022 season will include both a summer and fall season.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a consumer alert regarding Bank of America (BoA) that terminated its banking relationship with Avatar Property & Casualty Insurance Company (“Avatar”), which is currently in receivership for purposes of liquidation. Avatar policyholders and other recipients of checks issued by Avatar should not deposit or cash Avatar checks because those checks will not clear, and the policyholder or other recipient may be charged banking and overdraft fees.

MIAMI – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of seven individuals for their role in an alleged Personal Injury Protection (PIP) fraud scheme in Miami. The scheme was exposed during an undercover sting operation charging various therapists, runners, and staged accident patients with felony charges including Insurance Fraud, Grand Theft, Patient Brokering, and Organized Scheme to Defraud.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is celebrating April as Military Saves Month by encouraging Florida’s active military members and veterans to pay off debt and prepare for the future by creating an achievable savings plan. Military Saves Month is a month-long national effort to encourage the military community to strengthen their financial well-being.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) recently donated more than 630 desktop and laptops to Florida schools including Franklin County School District (192), Leon County School District (223) and Wakulla Christian School (219). The Desktop Services Team, located in the DFS Office of Information Technology (OIT), donates surplus equipment and computers regularly to Florida schools.

IMMOKALEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Jairo Adolfo Rivera on multiple counts of unlicensed public adjusting in Collier County. Rivera is accused of approaching Habitat for Humanity homeowners in Immokalee and offering them free kitchens and roofs if they signed an Assignment of Benefits (AOB), duping homeowners into unknowingly giving him the right to file insurance claims on their behalf and even sue their insurance company.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, CFO Jimmy Patronis released the following statement on the release of March 2022 Consumer Price Index data by the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics. The newest data comes on the heels of reports from both Deutsche Bank and Bank of America that the country may face a recession.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – In honor of April being World Autism Month, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis launched a new Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) website which aims to provide insurance resources and assistance for individuals with ASD and their families. ASD refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), autism affects an estimated 1 in 44 children in the United States today. Additionally, CFO Patronis also issued a proclamation recognizing April as World Autism Month to encourage both awareness and understanding of people with autism.

Florida CFO Jimmy Patronis is sending an anti-fraud strike team to Highlands County. The teams will go out to educate residents on the signs of fraud and to make sure that contractors aren’t breaking any laws when conducting repairs.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $31 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of March 2022. The Division of Unclaimed Property has returned more than $300 million to Floridians this fiscal year. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.6 billion has been returned to Floridians in unclaimed property.

SEBRING, FL. – Following the impacts of powerful storms causing severe hail damage to homes and vehicles in Highlands County this week, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis activated and deployed Anti-Fraud Strike Teams to protect residents in the surrounding areas from fraud. CFO Patronis’ anti-fraud teams work to educate and inform the public on signs of fraud and ensure contractors are following all applicable Florida laws while conducting repairs.

MIAMI – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Learne Perez, Paul Abelardo Pena Lora, and Leonado P. Pena Lora in Miami-Dade County for an alleged insurance fraud scheme involving the submission of 40 fraudulent warranty claims involving iPhone and Samsung cellular phones to American Bankers Insurance Company (Assurant) in an effort to allegedly defraud the insurance company of more than $39,000.00.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to Elon Musk following his purchase of a multibillion-dollar stake in Twitter, making him the largest shareholder of the social media company and a member of Twitter’s Board of Directors. CFO Patronis, as a member of the Enterprise Florida Board of Directors, is encouraging Musk to move Twitter’s corporate headquarters from California to Florida.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a Proclamation recognizing April as Financial Literacy Month and highlighting the importance of healthy financial habits. Last month, Governor DeSantis signed Senate Bill 1054, Financial Literacy, which will require high school students earn at least one-half credit of instruction in financial literacy or money management and will teach students about banking practices, money management, credit scores, managing debt, loan applications, insurance policies and local tax assessments.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – As strong storms are predicted to impact much of Florida with possible damaging winds, tornadoes, and hail, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is highlighting important storm recovery resources. The storm is projected to move through the Panhandle this evening, reaching the I-4 Corridor in Central Florida by Thursday night, and South Florida by this weekend. CFO Patronis’ PrepareFL.com website serves as a one-stop-shop for disaster information and resources to help Floridians recover quickly following a storm.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, during a meeting of the Florida Cabinet, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis recognized Trooper Toni Schuck with a Cabinet Resolution thanking her for her service and bravery. Recently, Trooper Schuck placed her patrol vehicle between a group of runners at the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and an oncoming intoxicated driver, heroically putting herself in harms way to save the lives of others.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. –Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis presented a Cabinet Resolution honoring Florida’s first responders that answered the call of duty following the Chipola Complex Wildfires that broke out in the Florida Panhandle on March 10, 2022.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is warning Floridians about the pitfalls of crowdfunding websites like “GoFundMe” being used to host online charity scams related to the Ukrainian War. With nearly 1,400 Ukraine relief fundraisers on GoFundMe, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning consumers that before giving to “Ukraine relief” funds, go to BBB’s Give.org for tips on how to best help Ukraine relief activities.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis appointed Belinda Keiser to the Florida Commission on the Status of Women. The Commission was created over three decades ago by the Florida Legislature with the mission of raising awareness and celebrating the contributions and successes of women and girls. Belinda Keiser’s appointment is effective immediately and expires March 31, 2026.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on Governor DeSantis signing Senate Bill 1054, Financial Literacy. This bill requires Florida high school students earn at least one-half credit of instruction in financial literacy or money management and will teach students about banking practices, money management, credit scores, managing debt, loan applications, insurance policies and local tax assessments.

NAPLES, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Brian Webb and Brandon Jourdan of Webb Roofing & Construction LLC for allegedly operating a homeowner solicitation scheme for free roof replacements related to damage allegedly caused by Hurricane Irma. The scheme involved allegedly enticing homeowners with rebates to cover their insurance deductible if they submitted a full roof replacement claim to their property insurance company.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $37 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of February 2022. The Division of Unclaimed Property has returned more than $269 million to Floridians this fiscal year and since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.6 billion has been returned to Floridians in unclaimed property.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released the following statement on the final day of the 2022 legislative session highlighting the passage of his top priorities, which include securing $10 million in funding for Florida’s Urban Search and Rescue Task Forces, providing tax relief so Floridians can protect their homes and lower their insurance premiums, and continuing efforts aimed at protecting consumers.

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis is commending the Legislature for including the ‘House Hardening’ initiative in its tax package, a priority announced by Patronis prior to the start of this year’s Session.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the Senate’s favorable passage of House Bill 615, Human Trafficking, sponsored by Representative Overdorf. House Bill 615 directs the Statewide Council on Human Trafficking to develop human trafficking training for firesafety inspectors. This training will provide information on how to identify children that are at risk, and the steps that should be taken, to prevent children from becoming victims of human trafficking. The bill now goes to the Governor.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis encourages Floridians to check their smoke alarms as you change your clocks when Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday, March 13, at 2:00 a.m. According to the National Fire Protection Association, roughly 3 out of 5 fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or non-working smoke alarms. Floridians should replace batteries in all smoke alarms as needed and test them to ensure they are working properly.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - A bill is headed to the governor’s desk that would make a personal finance class mandatory to graduate high school.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Yesterday, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis presented Major John Haynes with a proclamation for his service to the state of Florida and our nation. Following the CFO’s presentation of the proclamation, the Daughters of the Revolution honored Major Haynes with the Medal of Honor award. CFO Jimmy Patronis said, “It was an honor to present Major Haynes with a proclamation for his exceptionally meritorious service to the citizens of Florida and our nation’s military. For many years, Major Haynes has served as a highly respected public servant and trusted leader in the state, and he has distinguished himself by making unprecedented contributions to Florida’s veterans. I would like to thank the Daughters of the American Revolution for bestowing this great honor on Major John Haynes and congratulations Major, for your leadership, trustworthiness, service and patriotism.”

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Yesterday, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis inducted the officers of the Florida Commission on the Status of Women. The Commission was created over three decades ago by the Florida Legislature with the mission of raising awareness and celebrating the contributions and successes of women and girls. The CFO inducted Chair Eccleston, Vice Chair Day, Secretary Paulsen, Treasurer Barreto, and Members at Large Persons-Mulicka and Plakon.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the House’s passage of Senate Bill 1054, sponsored by Senator Hutson. This proposal will require that Florida high school students earn at least one-half credit of instruction in financial literacy or money management and will teach students about banking practices, money management, credit scores, managing debt, loan applications, insurance policies and local tax assessments.

BAY COUNTY, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced the deployment of two mental health professionals from Indian River County Fire Rescue and Iona-McGregor Fire District to ensure the mental health needs of fire teams is being properly met. CFO Patronis also received a briefing on the fires at the Unified Command Center in Panama City, toured the Sims Veterans Nursing Home that was evacuated out of an abundance of caution and also visited with evacuated veterans at the County Fair Grounds. Additionally, the CFO toured impacted areas for the Star Avenue fire.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the House’s favorable passage of Senate Bill 1058, Property Insurer Reimbursements, sponsored by Senator Hutson. Senate Bill 1058 transfers Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund coverage for private market insurers who take on certain policies. The bill moves next to the Governor.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the House’s favorable passage of Senate Bill 838, Fire Investigator Cancer Treatment Benefits, sponsored by Senator Wright. Senate Bill 838 adds fire investigators to the existing firefighter cancer coverage. The bill moves next to the Governor.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the House’s favorable passage of House Bill 749, Fraud Prevention, sponsored by Representative Clemons. This proposal increases penalties on unlicensed public adjusters who break the law; combats fraudulent telemarketing calls by requiring licensed warranty agencies to identity their full business name an license number immediately; forces big corporations to allow Floridians to easily cancel subscriptions; and empowers Florida policyholders by ensuring digital insurance applications will communicate with the digital driver’s license. The bill moves next to the Governor.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – In recognition of March as Fraud Prevention Month, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is encouraging Floridians to be on the lookout for fraud and scams. This Legislative Session, CFO Patronis is fighting for Senate Bill 1292 and House Bill 749, Fraud Prevention, sponsored by Senator Gruters and Representative Clemons. The legislation increases penalties on unlicensed public adjusters who break the law; combats fraudulent telemarketing calls by requiring licensed warranty agencies to identity their full business name and license number immediately; forces big corporations to allow Floridians to easily cancel subscriptions; and empowers Florida policyholders by ensuring digital insurance applications will communicate with the digital driver’s license.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the House’s favorable passage of House Bill 749, Fraud Prevention, sponsored by Representative Clemons. This proposal increases penalties on unlicensed public adjusters who break the law; combats fraudulent telemarketing calls by requiring licensed warranty agencies to identity their full business name an license number immediately; forces big corporations to allow Floridians to easily cancel subscriptions; and empowers Florida policyholders by ensuring digital insurance applications will communicate with the digital driver’s license. The bill moves next to the Senate Floor.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the House’s favorable passage of House Bill 615, Human Trafficking, sponsored by Representative Overdorf. House Bill 615 directs the Statewide Council on Human Trafficking to develop human trafficking training for firesafety inspectors. This training will provide information on how to identify children that are at risk, and the steps that should be taken, to prevent children from becoming victims of human trafficking. The bill moves next to the Senate Floor.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement upon passage of the Florida House of Representative’s tax package from the House Floor. The House’s tax package included the CFO’s “Home Hardening” initiative, which provides tax relief to homeowners to “harden” their homes from storms by installing impact-resistant items. The tax package moves next to the Senate.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy presented Israeli Consul General Maor Elbaz-Starinsky with 20 challenge coins to honor the Israel Defense Force members who responded to the Surfside building collapse last summer. For the past month, CFO Patronis has distributed nearly 360 challenge coins to all of Florida’s task force heroes as a part of his “Year of the US&R” statewide tour. Additionally, the Consul General presented CFO Patronis a Hamsa, a wish for good luck and success.

Members of Florida's Urban Search and Rescue Task Force 1 and 2 were recognized Tuesday for their dedication and bravery while responding to last year's condominium collapse in Surfside.

MIAMI, Fla. – Hoy, el Oficial principal de finanzas (CFO) y Jefe de bomberos del estado de la Florida, Jimmy Patronis honró a los miembros de los Grupos de trabajo 1 y 2 de búsqueda y rescate urbano (US&R) de Florida durante una ceremonia en Miami como parte de su gira por todo el estado “Año del US&R”. Tras el trágico colapso del condominio en Surfside, CFO Patronis ha luchado para conseguir $10 millones en fundos para raimiento y entrenamiento para apoyar a los dedicados grupos de trabajo de búsqueda y rescate urbano. Durante la Ceremonia, el CFO estuvo acompañado por miembros de la comunidad del servicio de bomberos de Florida, los Bomberos profesionales de Florida, la Asociación de jefes de bomberos de Florida y funcionarios elegidos para honrar a los miembros de los Grupos de trabajo 1 y 2 de US&R con monedas de desafío que conmemoran Surfside. El CFO distribuyó más de 160 monedas de desafío conmemorativo a los Grupos de trabajo 1 y 2 de US&R.

MIAMI, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis honored members of Florida’s Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Task Forces 1 and 2 during a ceremony in Miami as a part of his “Year of the US&R” statewide tour. Following the tragic Surfside Condo Collapse, CFO Patronis has fought to secure $10 million in funding for equipment and training to support Florida’s dedicated US&R task forces. During the Ceremony, the CFO was joined by members of the Florida fire service community, the Florida Professional Firefighters, the Florida Fire Chiefs Association and elected officials to honor members of US&R Task Forces 1 and 2 with Surfside Memorial Challenge Coins. The CFO distributed nearly 160 challenge coins to US&R Task Forces 1 and 2.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the Senate Appropriations Committee’s favorable hearing of Senate Bill 1436, sponsored by Senator Garcia. Senate Bill 1436 directs the Statewide Council on Human Trafficking to develop human trafficking training for firesafety inspectors. This training will provide information on how to identify children that are at risk, and the steps that should be taken, to prevent children from becoming victims of human trafficking. The bill moves next to the Senate Floor.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the Senate Appropriations Committee’s favorable hearing of Senate Bill 1874, Department of Financial Services, sponsored by Senator Boyd. Senate Bill 1874 will require insurance agencies to proactively disclose to policyholders that they’re closing their business; force public adjusters to notify consumers if they want to capture additional living expenses; and reduces workers’ comp penalties for small businesses. The bill moves next to the Senate Floor.

ALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the Senate Appropriation Committee’s favorable hearing of Senate Bill 1292, Fraud Prevention, sponsored by Senator Gruters. This proposal increases penalties on unlicensed public adjusters who break the law; combats fraudulent telemarketing calls by requiring licensed warranty agencies to identity their full business name an license number immediately; forces big corporations to allow Floridians to easily cancel subscriptions; and empowers Florida policyholders by ensuring digital insurance applications will communicate with the digital driver’s license. The bill moves next to Senate Floor.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the Senate Appropriation Committee’s favorable hearing of House Bill 1563, Homestead Property Tax Exemptions for Classroom Teachers, Law Enforcement Officers, Firefighters, Child Welfare Professionals and Servicemembers, sponsored by Representative Tomkow. This legislation works to ensure Florida’s first responders receive additional homestead tax exemptions. The bill now goes to the Senate Floor.

FORT MYERS, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis honored members of Florida’s Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Task Force 6 during a ceremony in Fort Myers as a part of his “Year of the US&R” statewide tour. Following the tragic Surfside Condo Collapse, CFO Patronis has fought to secure $10 million in funding for equipment and training to support Florida’s dedicated US&R task forces. During the Ceremony, the CFO was joined by members of the Florida fire service community, the Florida Professional Firefighters, the Florida Fire Chiefs Association and elected officials to honor members of US&R Task Force 6 with Surfside Memorial Challenge Coins. The CFO distributed nearly 40 challenge coins to US&R Task Force 6

ACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis honored members of Florida’s Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Task Force 5 during a ceremony in Jacksonville as a part of his “Year of the US&R” statewide tour. Following the tragic Surfside Condo Collapse, CFO Patronis has fought to secure $10 million in funding for equipment and training to support Florida’s dedicated US&R task forces. During the Ceremony, the CFO was joined by members of the Florida fire service community, the Florida Professional Firefighters, the Florida Fire Chiefs Association and elected officials to honor members of US&R Task Force 5 with Surfside Memorial Challenge Coins. The CFO distributed nearly 40 challenge coins to US&R Task Force 5.

OCALA, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis honored members of Florida’s Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Task Force 8 during a ceremony in Ocala as a part of his “Year of the US&R” statewide tour. Following the tragic Surfside Condo Collapse, CFO Patronis has fought to secure $10 million in funding for equipment and training to support Florida’s dedicated US&R task forces. During the Ceremony, the CFO was joined by members of the Florida fire service community, the Florida Professional Firefighters, the Florida Fire Chiefs Association and elected officials to honor members of US&R Task Force 8 with Surfside Memorial Challenge Coins. The CFO distributed more than 20 challenge coins to US&R Task Force 8.

I don’t know when memes first entered American political culture, but it had to be somewhere around 2010. That’s when at a New York State gubernatorial debate, then candidate for Governor Jimmy McMillan said something both profound and accurate: "The rent is too damn high!"

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the House Education and Employment Committee’s favorable hearing of House Bill 1115, High School Graduation Requirements in Personal Finance, sponsored by Representative Busatta Cabrera. This proposal will require Florida high school students earn at least one-half credit of instruction in financial literacy or money management and will teach students about banking practices, money management, credit scores, managing debt, loan applications, insurance policies and local tax assessments. The bill moves next to the House Floor.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the House Commerce Committee’s favorable hearing of House Bill 749, Fraud Prevention, sponsored by Representative Clemons. This proposal increases penalties on unlicensed public adjusters who break the law; will combat fraudulent telemarketing calls by requiring licensed warranty agencies to identity their full business name an license number immediately; will force big corporations to allow Floridians to easily cancel subscriptions; and will empower Florida policyholders by ensuring digital insurance applications will communicate with the digital driver’s license. The bill moves next to the House Floor.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the House Commerce Committee’s favorable hearing of House Bill 557, Fire Investigator Cancer Treatment Benefits, sponsored by Representative Salzman. House Bill 557 adds fire investigators to the existing firefighter cancer coverage. The bill moves next to the House Floor.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - In recognition of America Saves Week, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is encouraging Floridians to make saving the cornerstone of their financial plan. Since 2007, America Saves Week has served as a reminder to everyday Americans to pledge to saving successfully.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government’s favorable hearing of Senate Bill 1874, Department of Financial Services, sponsored by Senator Boyd. Senate Bill 1874 will require insurance agencies to proactively disclose to policyholders that they’re closing their business; will force public adjusters to notify consumers if they want to capture additional living expenses; and reduces workers’ comp penalties for small businesses. The bill moves next to the Senate Appropriations Committee.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement upon passage of the Florida House of Representative’s tax package from the Appropriations Committee. The House’s tax package included the CFO’s “Home Hardening” initiative, which provides tax relief to homeowners to “harden” their homes from storms by installing impact-resistant windows, impact-resistant doors, and impact-resistant garage doors. The CFO was in Committee to advocate for the initiative. The tax package moves next to the House Floor.

TAMPA – When tragedy struck in Surfside last summer, first responders from Tampa Bay and across the state of Florida answered the call to assist with the search, rescue, and recovery efforts at the site of the collapsed condominium building.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the Senate’s passage of House Bill 31, sponsored by Representative Busatta Cabrera. House Bill 31 enables certain provisions of the Firefighter Bill of Rights to be aligned more closely with the Police Bill of Rights when it comes to internal investigations. House Bill 31 now heads to the Governor’s desk for signature.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement upon passage of the Florida House of Representative’s tax package from the Ways & Means Committee. The House’s tax package included the CFO’s “Home Hardening” initiative, which provides tax relief to homeowners to “harden” their homes from storms by installing impact-resistant windows, impact-resistant doors, and impact-resistant garage doors. The tax package moves next to the House Floor.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the House State Affairs Committee’s favorable hearing of House Bill 1563, Homestead Property Tax Exemptions for Classroom Teachers, Law Enforcement Officers, Firefighters, Child Welfare Professionals and Servicemembers, sponsored by Representative Tomkow. This legislation works to ensure Florida’s first responders receive additional homestead tax exemptions.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the House Appropriations Committee’s favorable hearing of House Bill 557, Fire Investigator Cancer Treatment Benefits, sponsored by Representative Salzman. House Bill 557 adds fire investigators to the existing firefighter cancer coverage. The bill moves next to the House Commerce Committee.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the House Commerce Committee’s favorable hearing of House Bill 959, Department of Financial Services, sponsored by Representative LaMarca. House Bill 959 will require insurance agencies to proactively disclose to policyholders that they’re closing their business; will force public adjusters to notify consumers if they want to capture additional living expenses; and reduces workers’ comp penalties for small businesses. The bill moves next to the House Floor.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the Senate’s passage of Senate Bill 1058, sponsored by Senator Hutson. Senate Bill 1058 transfers Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund coverage for private market insurers who take on certain policies. The bill moves next to the House Floor.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a letter to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) urging it to require all cellphone carriers to provide free, comprehensive spam blocking services to all customers. In 2020, nearly 4 billion robocalls were received by consumers per month, which led to consumers losing $436 million to fraud via phone. Additionally, CFO Patronis supports Senate Bill 1292 and House Bill 749, which will require salespersons making telephone calls to provide their full legal name, license number, and their telephone number. This legislation will help to protect consumers as would increased efforts by the cellphone carriers to block spam calls for free.

ORLANDO, Fla. - El Oficial principal de finanzas (CFO) y Jefe de bomberos del estado de la Florida, Jimmy Patronis honró a los miembros del Grupo de trabajo 4 de Búsqueda y rescate urbano (US&R) de Florida durante una ceremonia en Orlando como parte de su gira por todo el estado “Año del US&R”. Tras el trágico colapso del condominio en Surfside, CFO Patronis ha luchado para conseguir $10 millones en fundos para raimiento y entrenamiento para apoyar a los dedicados grupos de trabajo de búsqueda y rescate urbano. Durante la Ceremonia, el CFO estuvo acompañado por miembros de la comunidad del servicio de bomberos de Florida, los Bomberos profesionales de Florida, la Asociación de jefes de bomberos de Florida y funcionarios elegidos para honrar a los miembros del Grupo de trabajo 4 de US&R con monedas de desafío que conmemoran Surfside. El CFO distribuyó más de 40 monedas de desafío conmemorativo al Grupo de trabajo 4 de US&R.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services’ favorable hearing of Senate Bill 1436, sponsored by Senator Garcia. Senate Bill 1436 directs the Statewide Council on Human Trafficking to develop human trafficking training for firesafety inspectors. This training will provide information on how to identify children that are at risk and steps that should be taken to prevent children from becoming victims of human trafficking.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the House PreK-12 Appropriations Subcommittee’s favorable hearing of House Bill 1115, sponsored by Representative Busatta Cabrera. This proposal will require Florida high school students to earn at least one-half credit of instruction in financial literacy or money management and will teach students about banking practices, money management, credit scores, managing debt, loan applications, insurance policies and local tax assessments.

ORLANDO, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis honored members of Florida’s Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Task Force 4 during a ceremony in Orlando as a part of his “Year of the US&R” statewide tour. Following the tragic Surfside Condo Collapse, CFO Patronis has fought to secure $10 million in funding for equipment and training to support Florida’s dedicated US&R task forces. During the Ceremony, the CFO was joined by members of the Florida fire service community, the Florida Professional Firefighters, the Florida Fire Chiefs Association and elected officials to honor members of US&R Task Force 4 with Surfside Memorial Challenge Coins. The CFO distributed more than 40 challenge coins to US&R Task Force 4.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement upon the release of the Florida House of Representative’s tax package from the Ways & Means Committee. The House’s tax package included the CFO’s “Home Hardening” initiative, which provides tax relief to homeowners to “harden” their homes from storms by installing certain materials, including impact-resistant windows, impact-resistant doors, and impact-resistant garage doors.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the Senate Rules Committee’s favorable hearing of Senate Bill 1054, sponsored by Senator Hutson. This proposal will require Florida high school students earn at least one-half credit of instruction in financial literacy or money management and will teach students about banking practices, money management, credit scores, managing debt, loan applications, insurance policies and local tax assessments.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the House State Administration & Technology Appropriations Subcommittee’s favorable hearing of House Bill 749, sponsored by Representative Clemons. This proposal increases penalties on unlicensed public adjusters who break the law; will combat fraudulent telemarketing calls by requiring licensed warranty agencies to identity their full business name an license number immediately; will force big corporations to allow Floridians to easily cancel subscriptions without forcing consumers to hop through a bunch of hoops; and will empower Florida policyholders by ensuring digital insurance applications will communicate with the digital driver’s license. The bill moves next to the House Commerce Committee.

JACKSON COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG) - Gov. Ron DeSantis held a news conference in Marianna on Friday. The governor announced more than $91 million to multiple communities through the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) Rebuild Florida Mitigation General Infrastructure Program.

JACKSON COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG) - Gov. Ron DeSantis held a news conference in Marianna on Friday. The governor announced more than $91 million to multiple communities through the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) Rebuild Florida Mitigation General Infrastructure Program.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a proclamation recognizing the Canadian Trucker “Freedom Convoy” and their efforts to peacefully protest and oppose Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s vaccine mandate. In the proclamation, CFO Patronis highlighted the sacrifices of truckers that make up the backbone of the world’s supply chain and deliver critical food and supplies, especially during the start of the pandemic.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is playing Cupid this Valentine’s Day and looking for Floridians with “Valentine’s-themed names” and urging them to search Florida’s Unclaimed Property database. Currently, Florida has more than $7 million in unclaimed property with Floridians who have the names listed below. Additionally, since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.5 billion has been returned to Floridians in unclaimed property.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – In recognition of February as National Cancer Prevention Month, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is raising awareness of the importance of including Florida’s fire investigators in existing cancer coverage. This session, the CFO is working with Senator Wright (Senate Bill 838) and Representative Salzman (House Bill 557) to ensure these essential fire service personnel receive cancer treatment benefits. Members of the fire service community face a higher rate of cancer-related diagnosis and death than the average population.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis honored members of Florida’s Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Task Force 7 during a ceremony at Fire Station 1 in Tallahassee as a part of his “Year of the US&R" statewide tour. Following the tragic Surfside Condo Collapse, CFO Patronis has fought to secure $10 million in funding for equipment and training to support Florida’s dedicated US&R task forces. During the Ceremony, the CFO was joined by members of the Florida fire service community, the Florida Professional Firefighters, the Florida Fire Chiefs Association and elected officials to honor members of US&R Task Force 7 with Surfside Memorial Challenge Coins. The CFO distributed a total of 27 challenge coins to US&R Task Force 7.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis warns Florida consumers who contribute to GoFundMe accounts to be on guard and ensure your donations are being used for the purpose you intend. In wake of recent news that GoFundMe threatened to redistribute money from Canadian Truckers and reports of fraud related to the Surfside tragedy, CFO Patronis urges Floridians to reconsider donating to GoFundMe campaigns and offers resources for those looking to recoup their donations.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $30 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of January 2022. The Division of Unclaimed Property has returned more than $231 million to Floridians this fiscal year and since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.5 billion has been returned to Floridians in unclaimed property.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - In recognition of Identity Theft Awareness Week, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is providing Floridians with tips on how to protect yourself against identity theft. Identity theft happens when someone uses your personal or financial information – like your Social Security or financial account number – to commit fraud. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), there were more than 101,000 reports of identity theft in Florida in 2020, making it the most reported category of fraud. CFO Patronis also recently released a consumer alert to warn Floridians to be on the look out for scams while filing their taxes.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Darneshia Hodge, Michelle O'Brien, Martine Charles, Chastity Barry, Cocynthia Hodge and Glennesha Scantlebury for allegedly developing a fraudulent insurance claim scheme involving multiple Aflac insurance claim reimbursement payments totaling more than $71,000.

SANTA ROSA BEACH, Fla. (WMBB) – Job-related cancer is the number one cause of death for firefighters. South Walton Firefighter Lt. Stephen Newsom is sharing his cancer survival story to bring awareness to the issue. In April 2020, Newsom went to his doctor for what he thought was just shoulder pains. It turns out he had cancer.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – With many parts of Florida expected to see near-freezing temperatures this weekend, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is highlighting winter fire safety tips to help ensure Florida families stay warm and safe as cold air sets in. According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), heating is the second leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries.

CFO Jimmy Patronis: Tax Season is Here, Stay On Guard for Scams TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – With recent reports that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) expecting backlogs, staffing shortages and delays in returns, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis warns Floridians to be aware of scam artists looking to use this news as their latest play to your steal sensitive financial information for personal gain. To help taxpayers safeguard themselves from scams, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides tips and resources so individuals and families can stay protected.

CFO Patronis: Without warning, the Biden administration yanked these lifesaving treatments from Florida. This is heartless. They’re so vaccine and masked obsessed. But people are still getting covid…2,000 people were queued up for monoclonal treatments appointments were cancelled because the Biden administration pulled those special treatments…

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is warning consumers of a scam called “Smishing”, which is a relatively new form of cyber fraud that’s threatening millions of consumers and small businesses around the world. Smishing is a form of “phishing” using SMS or text messages instead of email messages to lure in consumers to click on fraudulent links. According to the FBI, phishing and smishing scams cost victims more than $54 million in 2020.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following letter to statewide elected officials in California, following reports of a proposal that would double state taxes on California households and businesses. In the letter, the CFO argues that California leaders should just encourage their residents to leave the state rather than going through the “hassle” of passing a bill. The CFO’s letter was sent to Governor Gavin Newsom, Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, Secretary of State Shirley Weber, Attorney General Rob Bonta, Treasurer Fiona Ma and Controller Betty Yee.

CFO Patronis: We sent the Freedom of Information request to the Government… We’re going to get to the bottom of it. Look, when Joe Rogan and Tucker Carlson start talking about this early on and then Fauci hears about it. I’m sure there is some frustration. I’m sure he wants that speak to stop. We’re going to get to the bottom of it because we deserve to get the answers.

FT. MYERS, Fla. – Following the impacts of powerful storms and tornados causing severe damage to homes in Southwest Florida, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis activated and deployed his Disaster Fraud Action Strike Team (DFAST) to protect Southwest Florida residents from fraud. The DFAST deployment consists of eight insurance fraud and workers’ compensation investigators positioned in the tornado impacted areas including Lee, Collier, and Charlotte counties. CFO Patronis’ anti-fraud teams work to educate and inform the public on signs of fraud and ensure contractors are following Florida workers’ compensation law while conducting repairs. Additionally, yesterday, CFO Patronis highlighted important storm recovery resources for Southwest Florida residents.

FT. MYERS, Fla. – Following the impacts of powerful storms and tornados causing severe damage to homes and businesses in Southwest Florida over the weekend, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted important storm recovery resources. CFO Patronis’ PrepareFL.com website serves as a one-stop-shop for disaster information and resources to help Floridians recover quickly following a storm. CFO Patronis also warned consumers to beware of contractors asking for cash for repairs and always require contractors to show proof of insurance prior to beginning the job.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – With Census Bureau data, as well as a recent survey released from United Van Lines that a mass exodus of people are moving from lockdown states, to more open states like Florida, CFO Jimmy Patronis is partnering with the Florida Trucking Association to raise awareness regarding the use of moving broker scams and movers. Moving brokers do not load or move items, they arrange a move and sell the agreement to a moving company. In some cases, items are being held hostage by a moving company until new fees are paid because a rogue moving broker has sold their agreement with the customer without notice.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is highlighting his 2022 “Born Free” legislative priorities. The CFO’s top priorities include securing $10 million in funding for Florida’s Urban Search & Rescue (US&R – Pronounced ‘YOU-SAR’) Task Forces, providing tax relief so Floridians can protect their homes and lower their insurance premiums, and continued efforts aimed at protecting consumers.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – In recognition of January as Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued a proclamation recognizing the increased risk of cancer Florida’s more than 45,000 firefighters face while protecting communities throughout the state. According to a report, firefighters have a 9 percent higher rate of being diagnosed with cancer and a 14 percent increase in cancer-related deaths compared to the general population.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $25 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians during the month of December 2021. The Division of Unclaimed Property has returned more than $358 million to Floridians in 2021 and since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.5 billion has been returned to Floridians in unclaimed property.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Late Tuesday evening, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following letter to Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) Director Terry Rhodes regarding the development of digital insurance verification for licensed Florida drivers. In the letter, the CFO discussed the benefits of working with FLHSMV to craft legislation to implement electronic verification where it can interface seamlessly to FLHSMV’s digital driver’s license project already in process.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.— In recognition of January as Financial Wellness Month, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis is encouraging Floridians to take steps to secure their financial future by prioritizing saving in 2022. Good budgeting and saving habits are cornerstones of a prudent financial plan and helps individuals and families build an important financial safety net.