What is the non-refundable application fee for becoming a Florida Lottery retailer?
The application fee for becoming a Florida Lottery retailer is structured based on the type of application. For an initial application, the fee is $100. If you are applying for an additional store location, the fee is $25. A change of location fee is set at $10, and if you are adding a new officer, director, or shareholder, the fee for each is $25. These fees are payable to the Florida Lottery by check or money order.
What does the background investigation for Florida Lottery retailer applicants entail?
Applicants for a Florida Lottery retailer license will undergo a rigorous background investigation. This process can include fingerprinting and is designed to secure the integrity of the Lottery by ensuring that applicants meet certain standards. It covers criminal background checks and may extend to financial or other personal background inquiries. The primary aim is to verify the applicant's eligibility and reliability in handling lottery proceeds responsibly.
Why might a retailer applicant be required to post a bond or other security?
A retailer applicant might be required to post a bond, certificate of deposit, or other security forms as a precondition for approval. This requirement is determined during the background check process and is typically necessary when the applicant's financial history or background investigations suggest a heightened risk in securing payment of lottery proceeds. It acts as a financial guarantee against potential losses that the Florida Lottery might incur due to the retailer's actions.
How are the types of business entities that can apply for a Florida Lottery retail license categorized?
Business entities that can apply for a Florida Lottery retail license include a variety of structures. These are sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, non-profit organizations, limited liability companies (LLC), and limited partnerships (LP), as well as limited liability partnerships (LLP). Each type of entity must provide specific documentation related to its structure during the application process.
Are there any restrictions related to family members of Florida Lottery employees becoming retailers?
Yes, there are restrictions. The Florida Lottery will not contract with any individual who is related to and residing with any employee of the Florida Lottery. Relationships covered under this restriction include immediate family members such as spouses, children, parents, siblings, and others who reside in the same household as the Lottery employee.
What information is required from applicants concerning convictions or pending criminal charges?
Applicants must disclose if any listed owners, individual partners, managing members, corporate officers, or directors have been convicted of or pleaded guilty or no contest to a felony or any gambling offense within the last 10 years, regardless of adjudication. They must also declare any arrests and unresolved criminal charges, any suspension or termination as a Florida Lottery retailer, or any adverse actions or findings as a lottery retailer in any other state. Detailed explanations and dates for these disclosures are required.
How does the Florida Lottery use the Social Security number of an applicant?
The Social Security number of an applicant is primarily used for tax reporting purposes, as required by federal law. Additionally, it serves as a critical identifier in conducting background investigations which are essential for implementing Section 24.112 of the Florida Statutes. The background checks are vital for ensuring that only eligible and reliable individuals and entities are granted the privilege of becoming Florida Lottery retailers. Furthermore, this information may be shared with law enforcement agencies to aid in enforcing criminal laws.
What is the process and consequence of providing inaccurate information on the Florida Lottery Retailer Application?
Applicants must certify that all information provided in their application and any accompanying documentation is true and correct. Providing inaccurate, false, or misleading information can result in the rejection of the application or the cancellation of the Retailer Contract if the inaccuracies are discovered after approval. The emphasis on accurate and truthful disclosures is critical to maintain the integrity of the Florida Lottery and its operations.