Executive Order 14036, issued in 2021, focuses on the enforcement of existing antitrust laws and promoting competition, including encouraging the FTC to limit or ban restrictive labor agreements such as non-compete agreements. Although federal enforcement remains limited, states such as Nevada and Illinois have enacted restrictions; however, Florida has yet to take significant steps to limit non-competes, instead continuing to favor employer-friendly enforcement under §542.335.
COVID-19 has significantly impacted both renters and landlords, with federal and local aid programs offering rental assistance. In Pinellas County, $45 million has been allocated, but with landlords still covering expenses and eviction moratoriums ending, evictions and homelessness may increase. Experts urge cooperation between landlords and tenants to access available funds efficiently.
Florida House Bill 469, effective July 1, 2020, simplifies lease execution by removing the witness requirement for residential and commercial leases over one year. In combination with electronic signatures, the change allows for quicker and more efficient lease execution, allowing for earlier start dates for landlords and tenants.
