TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - A bill that would make it easier in Florida to lease property as a vacation rental is headed to the state Senate.
The House of Representatives narrowly passed a bill on Friday (63-56) that blocks city and county governments from regulating short-term rental homes differently than residential properties.
Lawmakers representing tourist-heavy districts were against the bill (HB 425) because of parties and disturbances. Many during debates on Thursday and Friday cited problems with Airbnb properties in beach communities. Those supporting the bill say it protects property rights.
The bill also requires owners to submit a copy of the rental license, certificate of registration and emergency contact information to local governments for information purposes only and at no charge.
It now heads to the Senate, where a similar measure made it through all three of its committee spots.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.