Regulatory Update / Initiatives
Gas Safety Act of 1967 — Rulemaking by the Public Service Commission has begun to implement the higher maximum fine that will be imposed if a contractor hits a gas pipeline or violates pipeline safety laws , pursuant to SB 366 which passed during the 2024 Regular Session . The penalty increases from $ 25,000 to $ 266,015 , per violation per day , not to exceed $ 2,660,125 in the aggregate .
Workers Compensation — NCCI is proposing a 1 percent overall decrease in workers compensation rates . In 2024 , the decrease was 15.1 percent ; in 2023 , 8.4 percent . Interestingly , the Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Contractors Association is opposing the decrease .
404 Permitting--The U . S . Army Corps of Engineers is outsourcing Florida ’ s 404 permitting to address overload and improve efficiency . This change allows private contractors to assist in evaluating permits related to discharges into wetlands and other waters , while maintaining environmental oversight .
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12 Ditchmen November / December