CLEWISTON, Fla. – Today, Governor Rick Scott directed Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) Secretary Jonathan Zachem to issue an Emergency Order suspending all fees required for occupational license applications for residents of Puerto Rico who were impacted by Hurricane Maria and are now in Florida. This includes over 50 different individual professional license types, such as barbers and realtors. By suspending fees, residents from Puerto Rico will be able to obtain a license from the state more quickly and continue their careers in Florida.

Governor Scott said, “As families from Puerto Rico relocate to Florida following the devastation caused by Hurricane Maria, it is crucial that we continue to do all we can to make it easier for these individuals to rebuild their lives and provide for their families. Today, I have directed the Department of Business and Professional Regulation to take immediate action to suspend licensing fees that would hinder or delay recovery efforts so these families can get back on their feet and continue successful careers in our state.”

DBPR Secretary Jonathan Zachem said, “Following Hurricane Maria, the Department is working to provide necessary resources to help families and individuals recover and get to work more quickly. We appreciate the leadership of Governor Scott in helping these families, and hope that by eliminating burdensome fees, residents from Puerto Rico will be able to continue their livelihood here in Florida.”

To view the Emergency Order, click HERE.