Brevard State Rep Files 'No Pick-up, No Pay' Measure

State Representative Randy Fine of South Brevard County has filed a measure called HB 971, a consumer protection measure.

According to Fine's office, it means Floridians would not have to pay for garbage pickup, telecommunications, and cable service when those services are not actually provided.

Under current Florida law, these services can be billed even if service is not provided.

Fine says his office has received hundreds of complaints from his constituents regarding their garbage not being picked up.

He says when government has the ability to mandate the purchase of a service, it has the responsibility to ensure said service is provided.

The measure goes beyond garbage pickup, as well. 

Fine says his office learned during Irma that the cable and telecommunications companies often restored service far slower than the electric utilities. 

He claims that it was because electric utilities cannot bill for power they aren't distributing, but cable and telecommunications can.

Fine says "if a consumer isn't receiving cable or phone or internet service, they should not have to pay for it. Period."

A companion bill is expected to be filed in the state Senate, according to Fine's office.


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