Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez Applauds Senate Passage of SB 584 to Strengthen Oversight of Commercial Driving Schools

The Florida Senate has unanimously passed SB 584, legislation sponsored by Senator Bryan Avila that would authorize the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to enter into interagency agreements delegating certain enforcement authority to county Tax Collectors. The measure is designed to strengthen oversight of commercial driving schools operating in connection with driver license services and to address fraudulent or deceptive practices that undermine the integrity of the licensing process. The House companion bill, HB 953, sponsored Representative by Omar Blanco, continues to advance in the Florida House.

“Public safety must always come first,” said Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez. “Many driving schools operate with professionalism and serve as valued partners in helping residents navigate the licensing process. However, when bad actors exploit gaps in oversight, mislead customers, or interfere with operations at our facilities, we must have the authority to act. This legislation strengthens integrity, protects residents from exploitation, and ensures we can work collaboratively with responsible driving schools to maintain a driver license system that is fair, secure, and worthy of the public’s trust. I am grateful to Senator Bryan Avila and Representative Omar Blanco for their leadership in advancing this important reform.”

“This legislation ensures consistent, statewide enforcement while allowing local offices flexibility to address issues occurring directly on their premises,” Senator Avila said. “We want to make sure that every driver on Florida’s roadways is properly trained, qualified, and lawfully licensed.” added Avila.

If enacted, SB 584 would allow optional agreements between FLHSMV and individual Tax Collector offices, promoting collaboration while maintaining clear lines of authority. The Miami-Dade County Tax Collector’s Office stands ready to work with state partners to implement the measure responsibly, with a continued focus on accountability, consumer protection, and roadway safety.