Florida bill seeks transparency in restaurant tipping practices

A new bill in Florida, HB 535, aims to change tipping practices in restaurants. It allows customers to refuse automatic gratuities or service charges if they are unhappy with the service. Currently, these charges can only apply to groups of six or more. The bill also proposes that restaurants disclose who receives the gratuity and the percentage charged. The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association opposes the amendment, citing concerns about customer communication and the importance of service charges for restaurant success. If passed, the law would take effect on July 1. The amendment was introduced by State Rep. Demi Busatta after observing common practices in Miami restaurants, where automatic gratuities are frequently added to bills.