(1) An out-of-state consumer debt collector who collects or attempts to collect consumer debts in this state without first registering in accordance with this part is subject to an administrative fine of up to $10,000 together with reasonable attorney fees and court costs in any successful action by the state to collect such fines.
(2) A person, whether or not exempt from registration under this part, who violates s. 559.72 is subject to sanctions the same as any other consumer debt collector, including imposition of an administrative fine. The registration of a duly registered out-of-state consumer debt collector is subject to revocation or suspension in the same manner as the registration of any other registrant under this part.
(3) In order to effectuate this section and enforce the requirements of this part as it relates to out-of-state consumer debt collectors, the Attorney General is expressly authorized to initiate such action on behalf of the state as he or she deems appropriate in any state or federal court of competent jurisdiction.
History.—ss. 5, 13, ch. 93-275; s. 818, ch. 97-103; s. 2, ch. 2010-127; s. 7, ch. 2014-116.
Structure Florida Statutes
Title XXXIII - Regulation of Trade, Commerce, Investments, and Solicitations
Chapter 559 - Regulation of Trade, Commerce, and Investments, Generally
Part VI - Consumer Collection Practices (Ss. 559.55-559.785)
559.552 - Relationship of state and federal law.
559.553 - Registration of consumer collection agencies required; exemptions.
559.554 - Powers and duties of the commission and office.
559.5541 - Examinations and investigations.
559.555 - Registration of consumer collection agencies; procedure.
559.5551 - Requirements of registrants.
559.5556 - Maintenance of records.
559.5558 - Public records exemption; investigations and examinations.
559.565 - Enforcement action against out-of-state consumer debt collector.
559.715 - Assignment of consumer debts.
559.72 - Prohibited practices generally.
559.725 - Consumer complaints; administrative duties.
559.727 - Cease and desist orders.
559.730 - Grounds for disciplinary action; administrative remedies.