A new bill in the Florida Senate address’s service charges and tipping
HB 535, titled “Public Lodging and Public Food Service Establishments,” clarifies the terms under which diners may be removed from restaurants if they do not pay their bill.
And a recent amendment that was added addresses automatic tipping and service charges. “A guest may not be required to pay an automatic gratuity or service charge if the guest complains … about the quality of service provided,” the amendment’s text says.
The legislation would also require restaurants to disclose who is receiving the gratuity or service charge and break down the percentages. This point is getting a lot of resistance from the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association.
The bill also deals with when and how an establishment can “evict” a patron. The establishment would nee to inform the patron ,”You are hereby notified that this establishment no longer desires to entertain you as its guest, and you are requested to leave at once. To remain after receipt of this notice is a misdemeanor under the laws of this state.”
The law also address’s what happens if a guest prepaid for the meal. .
