Posts by armandoibarra
Federal Government Shutdown: Impact For Travel and Tourism
The federal government shut down at 12:01 a.m. on Oct. 1, 2025 after Congress failed to pass a Continuing Resolution (CR) or full-year appropriations. Negotiations have not yet produced a deal; votes in the Senate have failed to end the impasse, so the shutdown continues into this week. About 750,000 federal employees are furloughed or…
Read MoreFlorida Court Ruling on Open Carry of Firearms
We want to make you aware of an important legal change affecting individuals and businesses across Florida. The First District Court of Appeal has struck down the state’s prohibition on openly carrying firearms in public. Individuals who are legally permitted to carry a firearm may now do so either concealed or openly visible. This change…
Read MoreService Charge Disclosure Legislation
In 2025 the Florida legislature passed SB 606, which establishes increased transparency for food service establishments that charge an automatic gratuity or service charge. Summary Key Definitions Requirements Additional Information
Read MoreTransient Occupancy Legislation
In 2025 the Florida legislature passed SB 606, legislation that strengthens the rights of hotels and lodging operators when dealing with guests that are uncooperative or not paying their bills. Summary: Key Definitions: Requirements: Additional Information:
Read MoreJune 2025 Local Government Meetings
Miami-Dade County Commission City of Miami Beach Commission City of Miami Commission City of Miami Beach Commission City of Miami Commission
Read More2025 Legislative Session Update
The GMBHA government affairs team led by Armando Ibarra has been active throughout the legislative session, playing a key role in advocating for important issues impacting the hotel and tourism industry, and worked closely with legislative leaders to defend our industry’s interests. GMBHA President and CEO, Curtis Crider, traveled to Tallahassee during Dade Days to…
Read MoreMay 2025 Local Government Meetings
Miami-Dade County Commission City of Miami Beach Commission City of Miami Commission
Read More2025 Legislative Preview
Legislators will make their way to Tallahassee for Organizational Session on Tuesday, November 19th, where they will be officially sworn into office. The 2025 Legislative Session will begin on Tuesday, March 4th, and end on Friday, May 2nd. Committee Week Schedule December 2-6, 2024 – Committee Week 1 (House only) December 9-13, 2024 – Committee…
Read More2024 Florida General Election Results
U.S. President & Senate Floridians overwhelmingly voted for former President Donald Trump to be the 47th President of the United States, earning him the state’s 30 electoral college votes. Trump received 56.11% of the vote compared to Vice President Kamala Harris at 42.97%. For the U.S. Senate, incumbent Republican Senator Rick Scott defeated Democratic candidate…
Read MoreIntroducing the GMBHA Gov’t Affairs Committee
We are excited to introduce the GMBHA Government Affairs Committee, which is designed to engage our members and inform GMBHA’s advocacy strategies. Participation is open to all members, and it’s a great opportunity for those with a strong interest in the political process or seeking a voice in government. Our first meeting will be held via Zoom…
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