The Committee on Regulated Industries of the Florida State Legislature convened on February 18, 2025, to discuss two significant pieces of legislation. The meeting began with the introduction of Senate Bill 160, presented by Senator Gruters. This bill aims to enhance the pathways for obtaining CPA licensure in Florida while maintaining existing standards. Senator Gruters also proposed a technical amendment to clarify the licensure application process and adjust the effective date. The amendment was adopted without objection, and the bill, as amended, received unanimous support from the committee members.

Following the discussion on SB 160, the committee turned its attention to the second agenda item, presented by Senator Rodriguez. This bill seeks to modernize the Telecommunications Access System Act of 1991 (TASA) by implementing recommendations from the Public Service Commission. The proposed legislation aims to authorize the distribution of updated technologies, revise outdated terminology, and expand the eligibility criteria for the TASA advisory committee. A technical amendment recommended by committee staff was also adopted without objection.

During the discussion, representatives from the Florida Telecommunications Relay, Inc. expressed their support for the modernization of TASA, highlighting the need to update the law to reflect current technologies. The committee members engaged in a brief question-and-answer session, but no objections were raised against the proposed bills.

In conclusion, both SB 160 and the modernization of TASA were favorably reported by the committee, marking a step forward in enhancing professional licensure and updating telecommunications regulations in Florida. The next steps for these bills will involve further consideration in the legislative process.