In an effort to help support small businesses, which are a critical force in Florida's economy, the Florida Legislature passed the "Small Business Regulatory Relief Act" (FL Ch. 2008-149), which became law in July 2008. This legislation modified Florida Statutes, Chapter 120 rulemaking processes, and established the Office of Small Business Advocate (OSBA) and the Small Business Regulatory Advisory Council (SBRAC). Both programs are housed within the Florida Small Business Development Center Network (FSBDCN). While the programs serve different functions, both are intended to give small businesses a greater voice in state government.

A vibrant & growing small business sector is critical to creating jobs in a dynamic economy Source: US - SBA - Office of Advocate

US SBA Office of Advocacy Frequently Asked Questions www.sba.gov/advo/stats/sbfaq.pdf

The OSBA serves as a liaison between state government and small businesses. The Office was charged with reaching reaching out to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to identify issues, concerns, and solutions to help the State of Florida lessen the burden of state government and facilitate SME attraction, retention, and expansion.

The OSBA conducted a series of Small Business Issues Forums across the state, meeting with SMEs. Using the feedback received during the forums and from online surveys for those unable to attend the forums, the OSBA identified the critical issues and recommendations on what the state could do to contribute to economic stabilization and diversification, and the expansion of private sector employment opportunities.

The SBRAC focuses primarily on protecting businesses from over-regulation. It monitors new agency rules, and reviews current rules at the request of small business owners to study their impact on Florida's small business community.

The Council is composed of nine members who are current or former small business owners and were appointed (3 each) by the Governor, Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, and the President of the Florida Senate. These members represent a wide variety of small businesses, and are from locations throughtout the state.

The Council also has a group of advisors who represent small business interests. Nine advisors representing small business advocacy and trade organizations from across Florida have joined the Council in their mission to support their legislative mandate.

1.9 million Businesses

• 1,523,250 non-employers (self-employed individuals)
• 426,073 small employers (less than 500 employees)
• 4,356 large employers (500+ employees)

Small Business Represents

• 99% of all of the state's employers
• 44% of all private sector employment
• Provide significant ownership opportunities for women, minorities, and immigrants

Job Creation

• Small employers created 58.7% of all net new jobs in FL
• "Non-employers" create jobs though use of staffing agencies and contract workers