Understanding the New Legislation and Its Impact on Consumers and Criminals Alike
New legislation concerning gas pump devices penalties took effect on July 1. Florida Commissioner of Agriculture credits WKMG-TV's reporting for the unanimous approval of the law in the 2023 legislative session.
Wilton Simpson, the head of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) and former state Senate president, expressed appreciation for the work done by WKMG-TV in bringing attention to the issue. The legislation is expected to save consumers in Florida millions of dollars annually.
FDACS is responsible for inspecting retail gas stations across Florida, ensuring the proper and safe operation of fuel dispensers.
FDACS criminal investigator, Lt. Corey Kissinger, drafted the original version of the bill. Kissinger mentioned that the new legislation will have a significant impact on law enforcement agencies throughout the state. He stated that criminals will continue their actions until they are imprisoned.
Under the new legislation, penalties range from five to ten years in prison for individuals who use devices to manipulate prices at the fuel pump.
According to the law, a person commits a third-degree felony if they intentionally breach, cause a breach, or gain unauthorized access to any internal portion of a retail fuel dispenser.
A second-degree felony applies when a person tampers with, manipulates, removes, replaces, or interrupts any mechanical device within a retail fuel dispenser with the intent to steal fuel.
Kissinger is part of a state and federal task force that focuses on arresting diesel fuel thieves operating in Jacksonville, Orlando, and Kissimmee.
The U.S. Secret Service agents in Orlando play a significant role in combating fuel theft.
Simpson stated that law enforcement agencies are already preparing to launch a coordinated effort to intercept fuel theft gangs operating throughout the state. He expressed confidence in the success of these efforts and credited the reporting by WKMG-TV for providing the tools necessary to combat this crime.
Simpson acknowledged the importance of Kissinger's detailed approach, which contributed to the successful passage and signing of the law by Governor Ron DeSantis.
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