The Florida Senate

586.15  Penalty for violation.--

(1)  A person who violates any of the provisions of this chapter commits a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083 for the first offense, and commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084 for a second or subsequent offense.

(2)(a)  The department may, after notice and hearing, impose a fine not exceeding $5,000 for the violation of any of the provisions of this chapter or the rules adopted under this chapter upon any person. The fine, when paid, shall be deposited in the Plant Industry Trust Fund. The imposition of a fine pursuant to this subsection may be in addition to or in lieu of the suspension or revocation of a permit or a certificate of inspection or registration.

(b)  Any administrative order made and entered by the department imposing a fine upon any person pursuant to this subsection shall specify the amount of the fine and the time limit, which shall not exceed 15 days, for payment thereof. Upon failure to pay the fine within the time limit, the permit or the certificate of inspection or registration of the person may be suspended or revoked without further hearing. An additional fine of $100 per day may be imposed until the order is complied with.

History.--s. 6, ch. 61-415; ss. 14, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 611, ch. 71-136; s. 3, ch. 80-113; s. 12, ch. 86-62; s. 76, ch. 93-169.