An Exclusive Interview With Florida's Top Sweepstakes Regulator - Part One

Florida is a recognized leader in the development and enforcement of sweepstakes laws and regulations in the United States.

It's one of only three states in the country that requires certain sweepstakes be registered and bonded before they can operate in the state. Florida also closely monitors key aspects of these promotions, from drafts of official rules to the final list of prize winners.

Florida's regulators are not hesitant to bring administrative actions and impose fines for a sponsor's failure to comply with the state's requirements. However, the knowledgeable staff of Florida's Division of Consumer Services is also very pleasant and helpful in answering questions about sweepstakes in their state.

While preparing a recent blog post, it occurred to me that I wasn't certain how Florida would respond to various situations. I requested the opportunity to interview a member of the Consumer Services division about some of these questions and several others relating to sweepstakes in Florida.

The resulting answers are illuminating. But before we dive into some sweepstakes issues, let's get to know our interview subject: Liz Compton, the chief of the Bureau of Compliance at the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Dale Joerling: What's your background in state government, and how did you arrive at the Florida Department of Consumer Services?

Liz Compton: I was a television news reporter and anchor for 15 years. When a communications position opened up at the Department, I applied for it and was fortunate enough to get the job. When the new commissioner was elected, I was promoted to Bureau Chief in the Division of Compliance.

Dale Joerling: What do you like about your job?

Liz Compton: I always enjoyed educating...

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