648.25  Definitions.

648.26  Department of Financial Services; administration.

648.27  Licenses and appointments; general.

648.279  Scope of license.

648.285  Bond agency; ownership requirements.

648.29  Build-up funds posted by bail bond agent.

648.295  Reporting and accounting of funds.

648.30  Licensure and appointment required.

648.31  Appointment taxes and fees.

648.315  Number of applications for licensure required.

648.33  Bail bond rates.

648.34  Bail bond agents; qualifications.

648.35  Professional bail bond agent; qualifications.

648.355  Temporary limited license as limited surety agent or professional bail bond agent; pending examination.

648.36  Bail bond agent's records.

648.365  Statistical reporting requirements; penalty for failure to comply.

648.38  Licensure examination for bail bond agents; time; place; fees; scope.

648.381  Reexamination.

648.382  Appointment of bail bond agents and temporary bail bond agents; effective date of appointment.

648.383  Renewal, continuation, reinstatement, and termination of appointment; bail bond agents.

648.384  Effect of expiration of appointment; bail bond agents.

648.385  Continuing education required; application; exceptions; requirements; penalties.

648.386  Qualifications for prelicensing and continuing education schools and instructors.

648.387  Primary bail bond agents; duties.

648.388  Insurer must appoint managing general agent.

648.39  Termination of appointment of managing general agents, bail bond agents, and temporary bail bond agents.

648.40  Application for appointment of professional bail bond agents; termination.

648.41  Termination of appointment of temporary bail bond agents.

648.42  Registration of bail bond agents.

648.421  Notice of change of address or telephone number.

648.43  Power of attorney; to be approved by department; filing of copies; notification of transfer bond.

648.44  Prohibitions; penalty.

648.441  Furnishing supplies to unlicensed bail bond agent prohibited; civil liability and penalty.

648.442  Collateral security.

648.4425  Notice.

648.45  Actions against a licensee; suspension or revocation of eligibility to hold a license.

648.46  Procedure for disciplinary action against licensees.

648.48  Witnesses and evidence.

648.49  Duration of suspension or revocation.

648.50  Effect of suspension, revocation upon associated licenses and licensees.

648.51  Surrender of license.

648.52  Administrative fine.

648.525  Civil assessment.

648.53  Probation.

648.55  All bail bond agents of same agency; licensed by same companies.

648.57  Penalty.

648.571  Failure to return collateral; penalty.

648.58  Injunctive proceedings.

648.24  Declaration of public policy.--It is the public policy of this state and the intent of the Legislature that a bond for which fees or premiums are charged must be executed by a bail bond agent licensed pursuant to this chapter in connection with the pretrial or appellate release of a criminal defendant and shall be construed as a commitment by and obligation upon the bail bond agent to ensure that the defendant appears at all subsequent criminal proceedings.

History.--s. 1, ch. 2002-260.

648.25  Definitions.--As used in this chapter, the term:

(1)  "Bail bond agency" means:

(a)  The building where a licensee maintains an office and where all records required by ss. 648.34 and 648.36 are maintained; or

(b)  An entity that:

1.  Charges a fee or premium to release an accused defendant or detainee from jail; or

2.  Engages in or employs others to engage in any activity that may be performed only by a licensed and appointed bail bond agent.

(2)  "Bail bond agent" means a limited surety agent or a professional bail bond agent as hereafter defined.

(3)  "Managing general agent" means any individual, partnership, association, or corporation appointed or employed by an insurer to supervise or manage the bail bond business written in this state by limited surety agents appointed by the insurer.

(4)  "Insurer" means any domestic, foreign, or alien surety company which has been authorized to transact surety business in this state.

(5)  "Limited surety agent" means any individual appointed by an insurer by power of attorney to execute or countersign bail bonds in connection with judicial proceedings who receives or is promised money or other things of value therefor.

(6)  "Primary bail bond agent" means a licensed bail bond agent who is responsible for the overall operation and management of a bail bond agency location and whose responsibilities include hiring and supervising all individuals within that location. A bail bond agent may be designated as primary bail bond agent for only one bail bond agency location.

(7)  "Professional bail bond agent" means any person who pledges United States currency, United States postal money orders, or cashier's checks as security for a bail bond in connection with a judicial proceeding and receives or is promised therefor money or other things of value.

(8)  "Temporary bail bond agent" means a person employed by a bail bond agent or agency, insurer, or managing general agent, and such licensee has the same authority as a licensed bail bond agent, including presenting defendants in court; apprehending, arresting, and surrendering defendants to the proper authorities, while accompanied by a supervising bail bond agent or an agent from the same agency; and keeping defendants under necessary surveillance. However, a temporary licensee may not execute or sign bonds, handle collateral receipts, or deliver bonds to appropriate authorities. A temporary licensee may not operate an agency or branch agency separate from the location of the supervising bail bond agent, managing general agent, or insurer by whom the licensee is employed. This does not affect the right of a bail bond agent or insurer to hire counsel or to obtain the assistance of law enforcement officers.

Note.--Former s. 903.37.

648.26  Department of Financial Services; administration.--

(1)  The department shall administer the provisions of this chapter as provided in this chapter.

(a)  The department has authority to adopt rules pursuant to ss. 120.536(1) and 120.54 to implement the provisions of this chapter conferring powers or duties upon it.

(b)  The department may employ and discharge such employees, examiners, counsel, and other assistants as shall be deemed necessary, and it shall prescribe their duties; their compensation shall be the same as other state employees receive for similar services.

(2)  The department shall adopt a seal by which its proceedings are authenticated. Any written instrument purporting to be a copy of any action, proceeding, or finding of fact by the department, or any record of the department authenticated by the seal, shall be accepted by all the courts of this state as prima facie evidence of the contents thereof.

(3)  The papers, documents, reports, or any other investigatory records of the department are confidential and exempt from the provisions of s. 119.07(1) until such investigation is completed or ceases to be active. For the purpose of this section, an investigation is considered "active" while the investigation is being conducted by the department with a reasonable, good faith belief that it may lead to the filing of administrative, civil, or criminal proceedings. An investigation does not cease to be active if the department is proceeding with reasonable dispatch and there is good faith belief that action may be initiated by the department or other administrative or law enforcement agency.

Note.--Former s. 903.38.

648.27  Licenses and appointments; general.--

(1)  A license may not be issued except in compliance with this chapter, and may not be issued except to an individual. A firm, partnership, association, or corporation, as such, may not be licensed.

(2)  For the protection of the people of this state, the department may not issue, renew, or permit to exist any license or appointment except in compliance with this chapter. The department may not issue, renew, or permit to exist a license or appointment for any individual found to be untrustworthy or incompetent who has had his or her eligibility to hold a license or appointment revoked, or who has not established to the satisfaction of the department that he or she is qualified therefor in accordance with this chapter.

(3)  The department may propound any reasonable interrogatories to an applicant for a license or appointment under this chapter or on any renewal thereof, relating to his or her qualifications, residence, prospective place of business, and any other matters which are deemed necessary or expedient in order to protect the public and ascertain the qualifications of the applicant. The department may also conduct any reasonable inquiry or investigation it sees fit, relative to the determination of the applicant's fitness to be licensed or appointed or to continue to be licensed or appointed. Upon the request of the department, a law enforcement agency shall inform the department of any specific criminal charge filed against any applicant and the final disposition of such charge.

(4)  If upon the basis of the completed application for a license or appointment and such further inquiry or investigation the department deems the applicant to be unfit as to character and background or lacking in one or more of the required qualifications for the license or appointment, the department shall disapprove the application.

(5)(a)  The license of a bail bond agent shall continue in force, without further examination unless deemed necessary by the department, until suspended, revoked, or otherwise terminated.

(b)  The license of a temporary bail bond agent shall continue in force until suspended, revoked, or otherwise terminated.

(6)  The original license issued to a licensee under this chapter shall remain outstanding and in effect for so long as the license represented thereby continues in force as provided in this section. The department may at any time require the licensee to produce his or her department-issued photo identification.

(7)  Any person who represents a surety company, whose duties are restricted to bail bonds, and who comes under the definition of "service representative" as provided in s. 626.015 shall be licensed and appointed as a bail bond agent.

(8)  An application for a managing general agent's license must be made by an insurer who proposes to employ or appoint an individual, partnership, association, or corporation as a managing general agent. Such application shall contain the information required by s. 626.744, and the applicant shall pay the same fee as a managing general agent licensed pursuant to that section. An individual who is a managing general agent must also be licensed as a bail bond agent. In the case of an entity, at least one owner, officer, or director at each office location must be licensed as a bail bond agent.

(9)  If, upon application for an appointment and such investigation as the department may make, it appears to the department that an individual has been actively engaged or is currently actively engaged in bail bond activities without being appointed as required, the department may, if it finds that such failure to be appointed is an error on the part of the insurer or employer so represented, issue or authorize the issuance of the appointment as applied for, but subject to the condition that, before the appointment is issued, all fees and taxes which would have been due had the applicant been so appointed during such current and prior periods, together with a continuation fee for such current and prior terms of appointment, shall be paid to the department. Failure to notify the department within the required time period shall result in the appointing entity being assessed a delinquent fee of $250. Delinquent fees shall be paid by the appointing entity and shall not be charged to the appointee.

Note.--Former s. 903.39.

648.279  Scope of license.--The issuance of a license pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall confer upon the holder the right to perform all duties and powers as authorized or conferred by the laws of this state.

History.--s. 5, ch. 96-372.

648.285  Bond agency; ownership requirements.--

(1)  A person may not own, control, or otherwise have a pecuniary interest in a bail bond agency unless such individual is a licensed and appointed bail bond agent. Any agency that is not in compliance with this subsection shall be subject to the issuance of an immediate final order of suspension of all operations until the agency achieves compliance.

(2)  If the owner of a bail bond agency dies or becomes mentally incapacitated, a personal representative or legal guardian may be issued a temporary permit to manage the affairs of the bail bond agency. Such person must appoint or maintain the appointment of a primary bail bond agent, as provided in s. 648.387, and may not engage in any activities as a licensed bail bond agent but must comply with s. 648.387 during the administration of the estate or guardianship. A temporary permit is valid for a maximum of 24 months.

(3)  Application for a temporary permit must be made by the personal representative or legal guardian upon statements and affidavits filed with the department on forms prescribed and furnished by it. The applicant must meet the qualifications for licensure as a bail bond agent, except for the residency, examination, education, and experience requirements.

History.--s. 4, ch. 2002-260.

648.29  Build-up funds posted by bail bond agent.--

(1)  All build-up funds pledged to indemnify an insurer which are posted by a bail bond agent or agency with the insurer must be held in an individual build-up trust account for the agent or agency in an FDIC-approved or FSLIC-approved bank or savings and loan association in this state, jointly in the name of the agent or agency and the insurer or in trust for the agent or agency by the insurer. Such account must remain open to inspection and examination by the department at all times. An accounting of all such funds shall be maintained which designates the amounts collected on each bond written.

(2)  Build-up funds may not exceed 40 percent of the premium as established by the agent's contract agreement with the insurer or managing general agent. Build-up funds received shall be immediately deposited to the build-up trust account. Interest on such accounts shall accrue to the bail bond agent.

(3)  Build-up funds are maintained as a trust fund created on behalf of a bail bond agent or agency, held by the insurer in a fiduciary capacity to be used to indemnify the insurer for losses and any other agreed-upon costs related to a bail bond executed by the agent. The build-up funds are the sole property of the agent or agency. Upon termination of the bail bond agency or agent's contract and discharge of open bond liabilities on the bonds written, build-up funds are due and payable to the bail bond agent or agency not later than 6 months after final discharge of the open bond liabilities.

(4)  Each insurer authorized to write bail bonds in this state and each managing general agent must furnish to the department a certified copy of a statement listing each build-up trust account and the balance therein by March 1 of each year.

(5)  Insurers must provide copies of build-up fund account bank statements to their agents and agencies.

Note.--Former s. 903.392.

648.295  Reporting and accounting of funds.--

(1)  All premiums, return premiums, or other funds belonging to insurers or others received by a person licensed pursuant to this chapter in transactions under her or his license are trust funds received by the licensee in a fiduciary capacity, and the licensee must account for and pay the same to the insurer, insured, or other person entitled to such funds.

(2)  A licensee shall keep and make available to the department books, accounts, and records as necessary to enable the department to determine whether such licensee is complying with this chapter. A licensee shall preserve the books, accounts, and records pertaining to a premium payment for at least 3 years after making such payment. Records that are preserved by computer or photographic reproduction or records that are in photographic form constitute compliance with this requirement.

(3)  Any licensee who unlawfully diverts or appropriates such funds or any portion thereof to her or his own use commits larceny by embezzlement, punishable as provided by law.

History.--ss. 7, 47, ch. 90-131; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 501, ch. 97-102.

648.30  Licensure and appointment required.--

(1)  A person may not act in the capacity of a bail bond agent or temporary bail bond agent or perform any of the functions, duties, or powers prescribed for bail bond agents or temporary bail bond agents under this chapter unless that person is qualified, licensed, and appointed as provided in this chapter.

(2)  A person may not represent himself or herself to be a bail enforcement agent, bounty hunter, or other similar title in this state.

(3)  A person, other than a certified law enforcement officer, may not apprehend, detain, or arrest a principal on a bond, wherever issued, unless that person is qualified, licensed, and appointed as provided in this chapter or licensed as a bail bond agent or bail bond enforcement agent, or holds an equivalent license by the state where the bond was written.

(4)  Any person who violates this section commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.

Note.--Former s. 903.40.

648.31  Appointment taxes and fees.--The department shall collect in advance all appointment taxes and fees for the issuance of any appointment to a bail bond agent or temporary bail bond agent, as provided in s. 624.501.

Note.--Former s. 903.41.

648.315  Number of applications for licensure required.--After a license as a bail bond agent has been issued to an individual, the same individual is not required to file another application for a similar license unless:

(1)  Specifically ordered by the department to complete a new application; or

(2)  A period of 48 months transpires between the time the licensee's last limited surety agent or professional bail bond agent's appointment is terminated and the date an application for a similar appointment is received by the department.

History.--ss. 57, 67, ch. 88-166; ss. 10, 46, 47, ch. 90-131; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 9, ch. 96-372; s. 22, ch. 2001-142.

648.33  Bail bond rates.--

(1)  Bail bond rates are subject to the provisions of part I of chapter 627 of the insurance code.

(2)  It is unlawful for a bail bond agent to execute a bail bond without charging a premium therefor, and the premium rate may not exceed or be less than the premium rate as filed with and approved by the office.

(3)  Any person who violates this section commits a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

Note.--Former s. 903.42.

648.34  Bail bond agents; qualifications.--

(1)  An application for licensure as a bail bond agent must be submitted on forms prescribed by the department.

(2)  To qualify as a bail bond agent, it must affirmatively appear at the time of application and throughout the period of licensure that the applicant has complied with the provisions of s. 648.355 and has obtained a temporary license pursuant to such section and:

(a)  The applicant is a natural person who has reached the age of 18 years and holds a high school diploma or its equivalent.

(b)  The applicant is a United States citizen or legal alien who possesses work authorization from the United States Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services and is a resident of this state. An individual who is a resident of this state shall be deemed to meet the residence requirement of this paragraph, notwithstanding the existence, at the time of application for license, of a license in the applicant's name on the records of another state as a resident licensee of such other state, if the applicant furnishes a letter of clearance satisfactory to the department that his or her resident licenses have been canceled or changed to a nonresident basis and that he or she is in good standing.

(c)  The place of business of the applicant will be located in this state and in the county where the applicant will maintain his or her records and be actively engaged in the bail bond business and maintain an agency accessible to the public which is open for reasonable business hours.

(d)  The applicant is vouched for and recommended upon sworn statements filed with the department by at least three reputable citizens who are residents of the same counties in which the applicant proposes to engage in the bail bond business.

(e)  The applicant is a person of high character and approved integrity and has not been convicted of or pleaded guilty or no contest to a felony, a crime involving moral turpitude, or a crime punishable by imprisonment of 1 year or more under the law of any state, territory, or country, whether or not a judgment or conviction has been entered.

(f)  The applicant has passed any required examination.

(3)  The department may collect a fee necessary to cover the cost of a character and credit report made by an established and reputable independent reporting service. The fee shall be deposited to the credit of the Insurance Regulatory Trust Fund. Any information so furnished is confidential and exempt from the provisions of s. 119.07(1).

(4)  The applicant shall furnish, with his or her application, a complete set of his or her fingerprints and a recent credential-sized, fullface photograph of the applicant. The applicant's fingerprints shall be certified by an authorized law enforcement officer. The department shall not authorize an applicant to take the required examination until the department has received a report from the Department of Law Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation relative to the existence or nonexistence of a criminal history report based on the applicant's fingerprints.

(5)  The department shall conduct a comprehensive investigation of each applicant, including a background check. The investigation of the applicant's qualifications, character, experience, background, and fitness shall include submission of the applicant's fingerprints to the Department of Law Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation and consideration of any state criminal records, federal criminal records, or local criminal records obtained from these agencies or from local law enforcement agencies.

(6)  The provisions of s. 112.011 do not apply to bail bond agents or to applicants for licensure as bail bond agents.

Note.--Former s. 903.43.

648.35  Professional bail bond agent; qualifications.--In addition to the qualifications prescribed in s. 648.34, to qualify as a professional bail bond agent an applicant shall:

(1)  File with his or her application for licensure and with each application for renewal or continuation of his or her appointment a detailed financial statement under oath; and

(2)  File with his or her application for licensure the rating plan proposed for use in writing bail bonds. Such rating plan must be approved by the office prior to issuance of the license.

Note.--Former s. 903.44.

648.355  Temporary limited license as limited surety agent or professional bail bond agent; pending examination.--

(1)  The department may, in its discretion, issue a temporary license as a limited surety agent or professional bail bond agent, subject to the following conditions:

(a)  The applicant is a natural person at least 18 years of age and holds a high school diploma or its equivalent.

(b)  The applicant is a United States citizen or legal alien who possesses work authorization from the United States Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services and is a resident of this state. An individual who is a resident of this state shall be deemed to meet the residence requirement of this paragraph, notwithstanding the existence, at the time of application for temporary license, of a license in the individual's name on the records of another state as a resident licensee of such other state, if the applicant furnishes a letter of clearance satisfactory to the department that the individual's resident licenses have been canceled or changed to a nonresident basis and that the individual is in good standing.

(c)  The applicant is a person of high character and approved integrity and has never been convicted of or pleaded guilty or no contest to a felony, a crime involving moral turpitude, or a crime punishable by imprisonment of 1 year or more under the law of any state, territory, or country, whether or not a judgment or conviction is entered.

(d)  Within 4 years prior to the date of application for a temporary license, the applicant has successfully completed a basic certification course in the criminal justice system, consisting of not less than 120 hours of classroom instruction with a passing grade of 80 percent or higher and has successfully completed a correspondence course for bail bond agents approved by the department.

(e)  The applicant must be employed full time at the time of licensure, and at all times throughout the existence of the temporary license, by only one licensed and appointed supervising bail bond agent, who supervises the work of the applicant and is responsible for the licensee's conduct in the bail bond business. The applicant must be appointed by the same insurers as the supervising bail bond agent. The supervising bail bond agent shall certify monthly to the department under oath, on a form prescribed by the department, the names and hours worked each week of all temporary bail bond agents. Filing a false certification is grounds for the immediate suspension of the license and imposition of a $5,000 administrative fine. The department may adopt rules that establish standards for the employment requirements.

(f)  The application must be accompanied by an affidavit verifying proposed employment and a report as to the applicant's integrity and moral character on a form prescribed by the department and executed by the proposed employer.

(g)  The applicant must file with the department statements by at least three reputable citizens who are residents of the same counties in which the applicant proposes to engage as a temporary licensee.

(h)  The applicant's employer is responsible for the bail bonding acts of any licensee under this section.

(2)  All applicable license fees, as prescribed in s. 624.501, must be paid before issuance of the temporary license.

(3)  The temporary license shall be effective for 18 months, subject to earlier termination at the request of the employer or if suspended or revoked by the department.

(4)  The applicant shall furnish, with the application for temporary license, a complete set of the applicant's fingerprints and a recent credential-sized, fullface photograph of the applicant. The applicant's fingerprints shall be certified by an authorized law enforcement officer. The department shall not issue a temporary license under this section until the department has received a report from the Department of Law Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation relative to the existence or nonexistence of a criminal history report based on the applicant's fingerprints.

(5)  The department may collect a fee necessary to cover the cost of a character and credit report made by an established and reputable independent reporting service. The fee shall be deposited to the credit of the Insurance Regulatory Trust Fund.

(6)  After licensure as a temporary licensee for at least 12 months, such licensee may file an application for and become eligible for a regular bail bond agent's license based on the licensee's experience in the bail bond business and education pursuant to paragraph (1)(d) and, if otherwise qualified, take the required bail bond agent's licensure examination. The applicant and supervising bail bond agent must each file an affidavit under oath, on a form prescribed by the department, verifying the required employment of the temporary agent before issuance of the license.

(7)  In no event shall a temporary licensee licensed under this section perform any of the functions for which a bail bond agent's license is required after expiration of the temporary license without having passed the written examination as for a regular bail bond agent's license.

(8)(a)  A temporary licensee has the same authority as a licensed bail bond agent, including presenting defendants in court; apprehending, arresting, and surrendering defendants to the proper authorities; and keeping defendants under necessary surveillance. However, a temporary licensee must be accompanied by a supervising bail bond agent or an agent from the same agency when apprehending, arresting, or surrendering defendants to authorities.

(b)  A temporary licensee may not execute or sign bonds, handle collateral receipts, deliver bonds to appropriate authorities, or operate an agency or branch agency separate from the location of the supervising bail bond agent, managing general agent, or insurer by whom the licensee is employed.

(9)  The department shall not issue a temporary bail bond agent's license to any individual who has held such a temporary license in this state within 2 years after the expiration of such temporary bail bond agent's license.

History.--s. 13, ch. 96-372; s. 9, ch. 2002-260; s. 100, ch. 2003-1; s. 1655, ch. 2003-261; s. 77, ch. 2003-267; s. 68, ch. 2003-281; s. 138, ch. 2004-5.

648.36  Bail bond agent's records.--Each licensee must maintain in his or her office such records of bail bonds executed or countersigned by him or her to enable the department to obtain all necessary information concerning such bail bonds for at least 3 years after the liability of the surety has been terminated. Such records shall be open to examination, inspection, and photographic reproduction by the department or an authorized representative of the insurer or managing general agent, or agents of the department, at all times, and the department may at any time require the licensee to furnish to it, in such manner or form as it requires, any information concerning the bail bond business of such licensee.

Note.--Former s. 903.441.

648.365  Statistical reporting requirements; penalty for failure to comply.--

(1)  Each insurer and each bail bond agent who writes bail bonds in this state, shall maintain and transmit the following information, based on their Florida bail bond business, to the department or office when requested and shall report the information separately for each company represented but only insurers shall report the information specified in paragraphs (a), (l), and (m):

(a)  Commissions paid.

(b)  The number of, and the total dollar amount of, bonds executed.

(c)  The number of, and the total dollar amount of, bonds declared forfeited.

(d)  The number of, and the total dollar amount of, forfeitures discharged, remitted, or otherwise recovered prior to payment for any reason.

(e)  The number of, and the total dollar amount of, forfeitures discharged, remitted, or otherwise recovered prior to payment due to the apprehension of the defendant by the bail bond agent.

(f)  The number of, and the total dollar amount of, judgments entered.

(g)  The number of, and the total dollar amount of, forfeitures paid and subsequently recovered from the court by discharge or remission or otherwise.

(h)  A list of every outstanding or unpaid forfeiture, estreature, and judgment, with the case number and the name of the court in which such forfeiture, estreature, or judgment is recorded and the name of each agency or firm that employs the bail bond agent.

(i)  The number of, and the total dollar amount of, bonds for which collateral was accepted.

(j)  The actual realized value of collateral converted, excluding the cost of converting the collateral.

(k)  The cost of converting collateral.

(l)  The underwriting gain or loss.

(m)  The net investment gain or loss allocated to the flow of funds associated with Florida business.

(n)  Such additional information as the department or office may require in order to:

1.  Evaluate the reasonableness of rates or assure that such rates are not excessive or unfairly discriminatory.

2.  Evaluate the financial condition or trade practices of bail bond agents and sureties executing bail bonds.

3.  Evaluate the performance of the commercial bail bond industry in accordance with appropriate criminal justice system goals and standards.

Each bail bond agent shall submit a copy of such information to each insurer he or she represents.

(2)  Any person who intentionally fails to provide the information in this section when requested by the department or office, intentionally provides incorrect or misleading information, or intentionally omits any required information commits a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

History.--ss. 13, 72, ch. 82-175; ss. 14, 50, 51, ch. 84-103; s. 5, ch. 87-321; s. 84, ch. 89-360; ss. 15, 46, 47, ch. 90-131; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 15, ch. 96-372; s. 1656, ch. 2003-261.

648.38  Licensure examination for bail bond agents; time; place; fees; scope.--

(1)  Upon approval by the department of a licensure application, the applicant for licensure as a bail bond agent shall appear in person to take a written examination prepared by the department, or by a person designated by the department for that purpose, testing the applicant's ability and qualifications to be a bail bond agent. The department shall determine the minimum performance level required for passage of the examination in order to ensure that the applicant has an adequate level of competence and knowledge of the duties and responsibilities of a bail bond agent.

(2)  The department or a person designated by the department shall mail written notice of the time and place of the examination to each applicant for licensure required to take an examination who will be eligible to take the examination as of the examination date. The notice shall be so mailed, postage prepaid, and addressed to the applicant at his or her address shown on his or her application for licensure or at such other address as requested by the applicant in writing filed with the department prior to the mailing of the notice. Notice shall be deemed given when so mailed.

(3)  Prior to being permitted to take an examination, each applicant must pay the department or a person designated by the department an examination fee. The fee for examination is not refundable.

(4)  The examination shall be held in an adequate and designated examination center in this state.

(5)  The applicant must appear in person and take the examination for licensure at the time and place specified in the written notice.

(6)  The examination shall be conducted by an employee of the department or a person designated by the department for that purpose.

(7)  All examinations shall be given and graded in a fair and impartial manner and without unfair discrimination in favor of or against any particular applicant.

(8)  The scope of the examination shall be as broad as the bail bond business.

(9)  Failure of the applicant to secure approval of the department does not preclude him or her from applying for licensure as many times as he or she desires, but an application may not be considered by the department within 30 days after the date upon which the department denied the last application.

(10)  Any bail bond agent who successfully passes an examination and is subsequently licensed as a bail bond agent must be appointed within 48 months after the date of licensure or be subject to another examination unless failure to be so appointed was due to military service, in which case the period of time in which another examination is not required may, in the department's discretion, be extended to 12 months following the date of discharge from military service, if the military service does not exceed 3 years. An extension of more than 6 years may not be granted under this subsection.

Note.--Former s. 903.46.

648.381  Reexamination.--Any applicant for licensure who has taken an examination and failed to make a passing grade, has failed to appear for the examination, or has failed to take or complete the examination at the time and place specified in the notice of the department may take additional examinations upon the filing of an application for reexamination, with applicable fees. The failure of an applicant to pass an examination or the failure to appear for the examination or to take or complete the examination does not preclude the applicant from taking subsequent examinations. A person who fails an examination three times must retake the 120-hour course and obtain a grade of 80 percent or higher before sitting for the examination again.

History.--ss. 18, 47, ch. 90-131; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 18, ch. 96-372; s. 11, ch. 2002-260.

648.382  Appointment of bail bond agents and temporary bail bond agents; effective date of appointment.--

(1)  Each insurer appointing a bail bond agent and each insurer, managing general agent, or bail bond agent appointing a temporary bail bond agent in this state must file the appointment with the department and, at the same time, pay the applicable appointment fees and taxes. A person appointed under this section must hold a valid bail bond agent's or temporary bail bond agent's license.

(2)  Prior to any appointment, an appropriate officer or official of the appointing insurer in the case of a bail bond agent or an insurer, managing general agent, or bail bond agent in the case of a temporary bail bond agent must submit:

(a)  A certified statement or affidavit to the department stating what investigation has been made concerning the proposed appointee and the proposed appointee's background and the appointing person's opinion to the best of his or her knowledge and belief as to the moral character and reputation of the proposed appointee. In lieu of such certified statement or affidavit, by authorizing the effectuation of an appointment for a licensee, the appointing entity certifies to the department that such investigation has been made and that the results of the investigation and the appointing person's opinion is that the proposed appointee is a person of good moral character and reputation and is fit to engage in the bail bond business;

(b)  An affidavit under oath on a form prescribed by the department, signed by the proposed appointee, stating that premiums are not owed to any insurer and that the appointee will discharge all outstanding forfeitures and judgments on bonds previously written. If the appointee does not satisfy or discharge such forfeitures or judgments, the former insurer shall file a notice, with supporting documents, with the appointing insurer, the former agent, and the department, stating under oath that the licensee has failed to timely satisfy forfeitures and judgments on bonds written and that the insurer has satisfied the forfeiture or judgment from its own funds. Upon receipt of such notification and supporting documents, the appointing insurer shall immediately cancel the licensee's appointment. The licensee may be reappointed only upon certification by the former insurer that all forfeitures and judgments on bonds written by the licensee have been discharged. The appointing insurer or former agent may, within 10 days, file a petition with the department seeking relief from this paragraph. Filing of the petition stays the duty of the appointing insurer to cancel the appointment until the department grants or denies the petition; and

(c)  Any other information that the department reasonably requires concerning the proposed appointee.

(3)  By authorizing the effectuation of an appointment for a licensee, the appointing insurer certifies to the department that the insurer will be bound by the acts of the bail bond agent acting within the scope of his or her appointment, and, in the case of a temporary bail bond agent, the appointing insurer, managing general agent, or bail bond agent, as the case may be, must certify to the department that he or she will supervise the temporary bail bond agent's activities.

(4)  Each appointing insurer, managing general agent, or bail bond agent must advise the department in writing within 5 days after receiving notice or learning that an appointee has been arrested for, pled guilty or nolo contendere to, or been found guilty of, a felony or other offense punishable by imprisonment of 1 year or more under the law of any jurisdiction, whether judgment was entered or withheld by the court.

(5)  A list of current appointments must be submitted to the department each month but in no case later than 45 days after the date of appointment. All appointments are effective as of the date indicated on the appointment form.

(6)  Failure to notify the department within the required time period shall result in the appointing entity being assessed a delinquent fee of $250. Delinquent fees shall be paid by the appointing entity and shall not be charged to the appointee.

History.--ss. 19, 47, ch. 90-131; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 19, ch. 96-372; s. 12, ch. 2002-260; s. 78, ch. 2003-267; s. 69, ch. 2003-281.

648.383  Renewal, continuation, reinstatement, and termination of appointment; bail bond agents.--

(1)  The appointment of a bail bond agent shall continue in force unless suspended, revoked, or otherwise terminated, subject to a renewal request filed by the appointing entity in the appointee's birth month and every 24 months thereafter. A renewal request must be filed with the department or person designated by the department to administer appointments along with payment of the renewal appointment fee and taxes as prescribed in s. 624.501.

(2)  Each appointing person or person designated by the department to administer appointments must file the lists, statement, and information as to each bail bond agent whose appointment is being renewed, accompanied by payment of the applicable renewal fees and taxes as prescribed in s. 624.501.

(3)  An appointment may be renewed without penalty if the information required under subsection (2) is received prior to the expiration of the appointment in the licensee's birth month, and such appointment shall be renewed, effective on the first day of the month succeeding the month in which the appointment was scheduled to expire.

(4)  If the information required under subsection (2) is received after the renewal date, the appointment may be renewed if the appointment, late filing, continuation, and reinstatement fees accompany the application as required under s. 624.501.

History.--ss. 20, 47, ch. 90-131; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 20, ch. 96-372; s. 13, ch. 2002-260; s. 79, ch. 2003-267; s. 70, ch. 2003-281.

648.384  Effect of expiration of appointment; bail bond agents.--

(1)  Upon the expiration of any person's appointment as provided in s. 648.383, such person is without any authority to engage or attempt to engage in any activity requiring such appointment.

(2)  If a bail bond agent fails to maintain an appointment with an insurer during any 48-month period, the bail bond agent may not be granted a reappointment until he or she qualifies as a first-time applicant.

History.--ss. 21, 47, ch. 90-131; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 21, ch. 96-372; s. 24, ch. 2001-142; s. 14, ch. 2002-260.

648.385  Continuing education required; application; exceptions; requirements; penalties.--

(1)  The purpose of this section is to establish requirements and standards for continuing education courses for persons authorized to write bail bonds in this state.

(2)(a)  Each person subject to the provisions of this chapter must complete a minimum of 14 hours of continuing education courses every 2 years in courses approved by the department. Compliance with continuing education requirements is a condition precedent to the issuance, continuation, or renewal of any appointment subject to the provisions of this chapter.

(b)  A person teaching any approved course of instruction or lecturing at any approved seminar and attending the entire course or seminar shall qualify for the same number of classroom hours as would be granted to a person taking and successfully completing such course, seminar, or program. Credit shall be limited to the number of hours actually taught unless a person attends the entire course or seminar.

(c)  For good cause shown, the department may grant an extension of time during which the requirements imposed by this section may be completed, but such extension of time may not exceed 1 year.

(3)(a)  Any bail-related course developed or sponsored by any authorized insurer or recognized bail bond agents' association, or any independent study program of instruction, subject to approval by the department, qualifies for the equivalency of the number of classroom hours assigned to such course by the department. However, unless otherwise provided in this section, continuing education credit may not be credited toward meeting the requirements of this section unless the course is provided by classroom instruction or results in a monitored examination.

(b)  Each person or entity sponsoring a course for continuing education credit must furnish, within 30 days after completion of the course, in a form satisfactory to the department or its designee, a written and certified roster showing the name and license number of all persons successfully completing such course and requesting credit, accompanied by the required fee. The department shall refuse to issue, continue, or renew the appointment of any bail bond agent who has not had the continuing education requirements certified unless the agent has been granted an extension by the department.

History.--s. 22, ch. 96-372; s. 15, ch. 2002-260.

648.386  Qualifications for prelicensing and continuing education schools and instructors.--

(1)  SCHOOLS AND CURRICULUM FOR PRELICENSING SCHOOLS.--In order to be considered for approval and certification as an approved limited surety agent and professional bail bond agent prelicensing school, such entity must:

(a)1.  Offer a minimum of two 120-hour classroom-instruction basic certification courses in the criminal justice system per calendar year unless a reduced number of course offerings per calendar year is warranted in accordance with rules promulgated by the department; or

2.  Offer a department-approved correspondence course pursuant to department rules.

(b)  Submit a prelicensing course curriculum to the department for approval.

(c)  If applicable, offer prelicensing classes which are taught by instructors approved by the department.

(2)  SCHOOLS AND CURRICULUM FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION SCHOOLS.--In order to be considered for approval and certification as an approved limited surety agent and professional bail bond agent continuing education school, such entity must:

(a)  Provide a minimum of three continuing education classes per calendar year.

(b)  Submit a course curriculum to the department for approval.

(c)  Offer continuing education classes which are comprised of a minimum of 2 hours of approved coursework and are taught by an approved supervising instructor or guest lecturer approved by the entity or the supervising instructor.

(3)  GEOGRAPHIC REQUIREMENTS.--Any provider approved under this section by the department to offer prelicensing courses or continuing education courses shall be required to offer such courses in at least two geographic areas of the state until such time that the department determines that there are adequate providers statewide to provide these courses to applicants and licensees.

(4)  INSTRUCTOR'S DUTIES AND QUALIFICATIONS.--

(a)  Each course must have a supervising instructor who is approved by the department. The supervising instructor shall be present at all classes. The supervising instructor is responsible for:

1.  All course instructors.

2.  All guest lecturers.

3.  The course outlines and curriculum.

4.  Certification of each attending limited surety agent or professional bail bond agent.

5.  Completion of all required forms.

6.  Assuring that the course is approved.

Either the entity or the supervising instructor may approve guest lecturers.

(b)  In order to obtain department approval as a supervising instructor, the following qualifications must be met:

1.  During the past 15 years, the person must have had at least 10 years' experience as a manager or officer of a managing general agent in this state as prescribed in s. 648.388;

2.  During the past 15 years, the person must have had at least 10 years' experience as a manager or officer of an insurance company authorized to and actively engaged in underwriting bail in this state, provided there is a showing that the manager's or officer's experience is directly related to the bail bond industry; or

3.  The person has been a licensed bail bond agent in this state for at least 10 years.

(c)  In order to obtain department approval as an instructor or guest lecturer, the person must be qualified by education or experience in the specific area of instruction as prescribed by department rules.

(d)  A person teaching any approved course of instruction or lecturing at any approved seminar and attending the entire course or seminar shall qualify for the same number of classroom hours as would be granted to a person taking and successfully completing such course, seminar, or program. Credit shall be limited to the number of hours actually taught unless a person attends the entire course or seminar.

(e)  The department shall adopt rules necessary to carry out the duties conferred upon it under this section.

History.--s. 23, ch. 96-372; s. 1, ch. 99-303; s. 16, ch. 2002-260; s. 1657, ch. 2003-261.

648.387  Primary bail bond agents; duties.--

(1)  The owner or operator of a bail bond agency shall designate a primary bail bond agent for each location, and shall file with the department the name and license number of the person and the address of the location on a form approved by the department. The designation of the primary bail bond agent may be changed if the department is notified immediately. Failure to notify the department within 10 working days after such change is grounds for disciplinary action pursuant to s. 648.45.

(2)  The primary bail bond agent is responsible for the overall operation and management of a bail bond agency location, whose responsibilities may include, without limitations, hiring and supervising of all individuals within the location, whether they deal with the public in the solicitation or negotiation of bail bond contracts or in the collection or accounting of moneys. A person may be designated as primary bail bond agent for only one location.

(3)  The department may suspend or revoke the license of the owner, operator, and primary bail bond agent if a bail bond agency employs, contracts with, or uses the services of a person who has had a license denied or whose license is currently suspended or revoked. However, a person who has been denied a license for failure to pass a required examination may be employed to perform clerical or administrative functions for which licensure is not required.

(4)  An owner, operator, or primary agent may not employ, contract with, or use the services of any person in a bail bond agency who has been charged with, found guilty of, or pled guilty or nolo contendere to a felony or a crime punishable by imprisonment of 1 year or more under the law of any jurisdiction, without regard to whether judgment was entered or withheld by the court.

(5)  A bail bond agency location may not conduct surety business unless a primary bail bond agent is designated at all times. The failure to designate a primary agent on a form prescribed by the department, within 10 working days after an agency's inception or a change of primary agent, is a violation of this chapter, punishable as provided in s. 648.45.

History.--s. 17, ch. 2002-260.

648.388  Insurer must appoint managing general agent.--Any insurer regularly engaged in the execution of bail bonds in this state shall have a managing general agent in this state to supervise its agents. Upon the appointment of a managing general agent, the insurer shall file with the department an affidavit under oath, executed by the appointee, certifying that the appointee does not owe any unpaid premiums to any insurer and does not have any unpaid judgments or forfeitures in any state. A managing general agent shall maintain an office in this state and maintain all records relating to bonds issued in this state.

History.--ss. 3, 72, ch. 82-175; ss. 50, 51, ch. 84-103; s. 5, ch. 87-321; ss. 22, 46, 47, ch. 90-131; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 18, ch. 2002-260.

648.39  Termination of appointment of managing general agents, bail bond agents, and temporary bail bond agents.--

(1)  An insurer who terminates the appointment of a managing general agent, bail bond agent, or temporary bail bond agent shall, within 10 days after such termination, file written notice thereof with the department together with a statement that it has given or mailed notice to the terminated agent. Such notice filed with the department must state the reasons, if any, for such termination. Information so furnished the department is confidential and exempt from the provisions of s. 119.07(1).

(2)  Each insurer shall, within 5 days after terminating the appointment of any managing general agent, bail bond agent, or temporary bail bond agent, give written notice thereof to each clerk of the circuit court and sheriff with whom such person is registered.

(3)  An insurer that terminates the appointment of a managing general agent, bail bond agent, or temporary bail bond agent may authorize such person to continue to attempt the arrest and surrender of a defendant for whom a surety bond had been written by the bail bond agent prior to termination and to seek discharge of forfeitures and judgments as provided in chapter 903.

Note.--Former s. 903.47.

648.40  Application for appointment of professional bail bond agents; termination.--

(1)  Upon licensure as a professional bail bond agent, the licensee shall file an application for appointment with the department together with the required appointment fees and taxes as prescribed in s. 624.501.

(2)  Any professional bail bond agent who discontinues writing bail bonds during the period for which he or she is appointed must notify each clerk of the circuit court and each sheriff with whom he or she is registered and the department within 30 days after such discontinuance.

Note.--Former s. 903.48.

648.41  Termination of appointment of temporary bail bond agents.--A bail bond agent, insurer, or managing general agent terminating the appointment of a temporary bail bond agent must, within 10 days, file written notice thereof with the department, together with a statement that notice has been given or mailed to the temporary bail bond agent. Such notice filed with the department shall state the reasons, if any, for such termination. Information so furnished the department is confidential and