The Office proposes to create new registration/notice-filing rules for entities required to be registered or notice-filed under Chapter 517, Florida Statutes. The Office identified 14 of these categories and proposes to create separate rules for ...  

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    DEPARTMENT OF FINANCIAL SERVICES

    Securities

    RULE NOS.:RULE TITLES:

    69W-600.0012Application for Registration as a Dealer (non-FINRA)

    69W-600.0013Application for Registration as an Issuer/Dealer

    69W-600.0016Application for Registration as an Investment Adviser (State Registered)

    69W-600.0017Notice-Filing for Federal Covered Advisers

    69W-600.0022Application for Registration as an Associated Person (Non-FINRA Dealer)

    69W-600.0023Application for Registration as an Associated Person (Issuer/Dealer)

    69W-600.0024Application for Registration as an Associated Person (Investment Adviser)

    69W-600.0031Notice-Filing of Branch Office (FINRA Dealer)

    69W-600.0032Notice-Filing of Branch Office (Non-FINRA Dealer)

    69W-600.0033Notice Filing of Branch Office (Issuer/Dealer)

    69W-600.0034Notice-Filing of Branch Office (Investment Adviser)

    PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The Office proposes to create new registration/notice-filing rules for entities required to be registered or notice-filed under Chapter 517, Florida Statutes. The Office identified 14 of these categories and proposes to create separate rules for each (11 new, plus amendments to 3 existing rules). The purpose and effect of these changes are to improve organization and clarify and provide applicants with a single rule containing the requirements for the registration type they are applying for. 13 existing rules in Chapter 69W, F.A.C. are identified for repeal with the provisions of those rules appearing in the proposed new rules as applicable to each registration type.

    SUMMARY: Rules are proposed to be created to address each registration type separately under Chapter 517, F.S.

    SUMMARY OF STATEMENT OF ESTIMATED REGULATORY COSTS AND LEGISLATIVE RATIFICATION: The Agency has determined that this will not have an adverse impact on small business or likely increase directly or indirectly regulatory costs in excess of $200,000 in the aggregate within one year after the implementation of the rule. A SERC has not been prepared by the Agency.

    The Agency has determined that the proposed rule is not expected to require legislative ratification based on the statement of estimated regulatory costs or if no SERC is required, the information expressly relied upon and described herein: The Agency expressly relies on an analysis of potential economic impact conducted by persons with subject matter knowledge of this rule.

    Any person who wishes to provide information regarding a statement of estimated regulatory costs, or provide a proposal for a lower cost regulatory alternative must do so in writing within 21 days of this notice.

    RULEMAKING AUTHORITY: 517.03(1), 517.12, 517.1201, 517.1202 FS.

    LAW IMPLEMENTED: 517.03(1), 517.12, 517.1201, 517.1202 FS.

    IF REQUESTED WITHIN 21 DAYS OF THE DATE OF THIS NOTICE, A HEARING WILL BE SCHEDULED AND ANNOUNCED IN THE FAR.

    THE PERSON TO BE CONTACTED REGARDING THE PROPOSED RULE IS: John Kim, Division of Securities, john.kim@flofr.com, (850)410-9781

     

    THE FULL TEXT OF THE PROPOSED RULE IS:

     

    69W-600.0012 Application for Registration as a Dealer (Non-FINRA).

    (1) New Applications.

    (a) Applicants for initial registration of dealers that are not members of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) shall file the Uniform Application for Broker-Dealer Registration (Form BD) electronically on the Office of Financial Regulation’s website at https://real.flofr.com through the Regulatory Enforcement and Licensing System (REAL) System as prescribed by the Financial Services Commission (Commission). The application shall include all information required by such form, any other information the Commission or Office may require, and payment of the statutory fees required by Sections 517.12(10) and 517.131, F.S. The application shall be deemed received on the date the Office issues a confirmation of submission and payment to the applicant via the Office’s website.  Every application or amendment filed pursuant to this rule shall constitute a “written application” within the meaning of Section 517.12(6), F.S.

    (b) An application shall include the following:

    1. Form BD (1-08), which is hereby incorporated by reference and available at http://www.flrules.org/    / or http://www.flofr.com/    /;

    2. Statutory fee in the amount required by Section 517.12(10), F.S.;

    3. A Uniform Application for Securities Industry Registration or Transfer (Form U-4) (05/2009), to register at least one principal as set forth in this rule. The Form U-4 is hereby incorporated by reference and available at http://www.flrules.org/    / or http://www.flofr.com/    /. In conjunction with filing its Form BD with the Office, the dealer shall provide the Office written notification of the principal’s name and social security number;

    4. Financial statements and reports required under Rules 69W-600.0151(4)(a) and 69W-600.017, F.A.C.;

    5. Proof of effective registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Where required by Section 517.12(16), F.S., applicants shall also provide the Office with proof of insurance coverage by the Securities Investor Protection Corporation. Evidence of current membership as a dealer with the SEC shall satisfy this requirement;

    6. Any direct or indirect owner or control person required to be reported on Form BD, pursuant to Section 517.12(7), F.S., shall comply with the fingerprinting requirements in accordance with paragraph (7) of this rule; and

    7. A copy of the articles of incorporation and amendments thereto, if a partnership, a copy of the partnership agreement, or if a limited liability company, a copy of the articles of organization.

    (2) Request for Additional Information. All information required by paragraph (1) of this rule shall be submitted with the original application filing. Any request for additional documents or information shall be made by the Office within thirty (30) days after receipt of the application. The Office may require documentation to be certified by its issuer based upon the Office’s review of the nature and substance of the disciplinary history of the applicant and any officer, director, or ultimate owner in the case of a corporation or association, and any partner, co-partner, or member of the partnership in the case of a partnership. For purposes of this rule, “certified” means that there must be an original certification or attestation by the issuer of the record that the document is a true copy of a record contained in its office and its seal, if any. Additional information shall be submitted directly with the Office within sixty (60) days after a request has been made by the Office. Failure to respond to such request within sixty (60) days after the date of the request may be construed by the Office as grounds for denial of an application in accordance with the provisions of Section 120.60(1), F.S.

    (3) Amendment of Application. If the information contained in any application for registration as a dealer or in any amendment thereto, becomes inaccurate for any reason, the dealer shall file an amendment on the Form BD, correcting such information within 30 days. Applicants and registrants shall file such amendments, including those required by paragraph (11) of this rule, directly with the Office electronically through the REAL System.  Requests to make changes which are material to the application or to the Office’s evaluation of the application filed at any time after the application has been received may be deemed by the Office to be grounds for denial, and a new application, accompanied by the appropriate filing fee, may be required.

    (4) Obligations Related to Acts of Associated Persons. A dealer shall be responsible for the acts, practices, and conduct of their registered associated persons in connection with the purchase and sale of securities or in connection with the rendering of investment advice until such time as they have been properly terminated as provided in this rule; and such dealer may be subject to assessment under Section 517.12(11), F.S., for such associated persons as have been terminated but for whom the appropriate termination notices have not been filed at date of license renewal.

    (5) Requirement to Maintain Principal.

    (a) Every applicant for registration and registrant under Section 517.12, F.S., as a dealer (as those terms are defined under Section 517.021, F.S.), shall have and maintain at least one associated person qualified and registered as principal pursuant to Section 517.12, F.S., and the rules thereunder.

    (b) In the event a registered dealer fails to maintain at least one person registered as principal for more than thirty (30) days, the registration of such dealer shall be suspended until such time as a qualified principal is so registered.

    (c) Any applicant or registrant dealer may elect to register more than one person as principal; there is no limitation as to the number of associated persons that may be registered as principal as long as such persons meet the qualification standards as prescribed in paragraph (6) of this rule, and the appropriate fees as specified in Section 517.12(10), F.S., have been paid.

    (6) Examinations/Qualfications Requirements.

    (a) Every applicant for registration shall execute and submit a statement attesting to said applicant’s knowledge and review of the Florida Securities and Investor Protection Act, as contained in the Form U-4.

    (b) Every applicant for initial registration as a principal or agent of a dealer shall evidence securities general knowledge by:

    1. Submitting to the Office proof of passing, within two years of the date of application for registration, an appropriate examination relating to the position to be filled administered by a national securities association or a national securities exchange registered with the SEC; or

    2. Submitting to the Office evidence of effective registration, within the preceding two years, with a national securities association or national stock exchange registered with the SEC, relating to the position to be filled as principal or agent; or

    3. Having remained continuously registered in the capacity to be filled with the State of Florida without interruption of more than two years.

    (7) Fingerprint Requirements.

    (a) Fingerprints filed in accordance with Section 517.12(7), F.S., shall be submitted to the Office through a live scan vendor approved by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and published on FDLE’s website for submission to FDLE and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for a state criminal background check and a federal criminal background check. The cost of fingerprint processing shall be borne by the applicant and paid directly to the live scan vendor.

    (b) Notwithstanding any exemptions found in SEC rule 17f-2 (17 C.F.R. § 240.17f-2) which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C., any direct owner, principal, or indirect owner that is required to be reported on Form BD, pursuant to Section 517.12(7), F.S., who is not currently registered with the firm they are seeking to join or act as a direct owner, principal, or indirect owner shall submit fingerprints to the Office through a live scan vendor approved by FDLE and published on FDLE’s website for submission to FDLE and the FBI for a state criminal background check and a federal criminal background check. The cost of fingerprint processing shall be borne by the applicant and paid directly to the live scan vendor.

    (8) Renewal Requirement.

    (a) Every dealer registered with the Office shall annually verify all registrations of associated persons and branch office notice-filings prior to December 31.

    (b) In addition to verifying registration or notice-filings as provided in paragraph (8)(a), to renew its registration and the registrations of its associated persons and branch office notice-filings, each dealer shall pay all renewal fees as required by Sections 517.12(11) and 517.1202(3), F.S.

    (c) Renewal fees for non-FINRA member firms, associated persons of non-FINRA member firms and all branch offices of non-FINRA member firms shall be filed electronically on the Office’s website at https://real.flofr.com through the REAL System and shall be deemed received on the date the Office issues a confirmation of submission and payment to the applicant via the Office’s website. All renewal fees must be received by the Office by December 31 of the year the registration or notice-filing expires.

    (d) For dealers that are not members of FINRA, failure to submit the requisite amount of fees as provided for in paragraph (8)(b) by December 31 of the year of expiration of the registration shall result in the firm registration, agent registration, or notice-filing not being renewed. If December 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the renewals received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. However, an expired registration or notice-filing may be reinstated in accordance with Section 517.12(11) or 517.1202(3), F.S., provided that all requisite information and fees are filed electronically on the Office’s website at https://real.flofr.com through the REAL System on or before January 31 of the year following the year of expiration. Failure to submit the requisite amount of fees necessary to reinstate registration by January 31 of the year following the year of expiration shall result in such registration or notice-filing not being reinstated. If January 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the reinstatement received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. If the renewal or reinstatement is withdrawn or not granted, any fees filed to renew or reinstate registration or notice-filing shall become the revenue of the state pursuant to the provisions of Section 517.12(10) or 517.1202(8), F.S., and shall not be returnable.

    (9) Termination of Registration as Dealer, Principal or Agent, or Notificaton of Branch Office.

    (a) Where a registrant withdraws, cancels, or otherwise terminates registration, or is terminated for any reason, notice of such fact shall be electronically filed with the Office through the REAL System on the forms incorporated in paragraph (9)(c) of this rule within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of termination. Such forms shall be filed electronically in accordance with this rule.

    (b) The Office may deny any request to terminate or withdraw any application or registration as provided under Section 517.161(5), F.S.

    (c) The forms to be utilized for providing notice to the Office under paragraph (9)(a), and which are hereby incorporated by reference are:

    1. Uniform Request for Broker Dealer Withdrawal (Form BDW) (04-07), which is hereby incorporated by reference and is available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/   /.

    2. Uniform Branch Office Registration Form (Form BR) (10-05), which is hereby incorporated by reference and is available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/   /.

    3. Uniform Termination Notice for Securities Industry Registration (Form U-5) (05-09), which is hereby incorporated by reference and is available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/   /.

    (10) Notice of Civil, Criminal or Administrative Action.  A broker dealer shall:

    (a) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date a complaint is served, of any civil, criminal or administrative charges filed against the firm or owner which directly or indirectly relate to the registration or sale of securities, or which directly or indirectly relate to the activities as a dealer, investment adviser, principal or agent, or any other activity where a breach of a fiduciary trust is alleged. This shall not include minor traffic violations; but shall include any notification of investigation by any recognized regulatory agency;

    (b) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date filed, any answer or reply to any complaint filed as outlined in paragraph (10)(a);

    (c) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of decision, order, or sanction rendered, or any appeal filed with respect to such decision with regard to any complaint outlined in paragraph (10)(a); and

    (d) Notify the Office one (1) copy of such complaint, answer or reply, decision, order, or sanction at the time of notification in accordance with paragraphs (10)(a), (10)(b), and (10)(c). A broker dealer who is not a member of the FINRA shall file such notifications with the Office through the REAL System in accordance with this rule.

    (11) Changes in Name and Successor Registration Requirements.

    (a) Where only a change in the name of an applicant or registrant as dealer or associated person occurs, notices of such fact shall be filed as an amendment on the forms prescribed by the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of such change. For registrants who are not members of the FINRA, such amendment shall be filed with the Office through the REAL System. Any amendments to organizational documents or accompanying letters of explanation shall be promptly submitted to the Office when specifically requested by the Office pursuant to section 517.201, F.S.

    (b) Where there is a change in legal entity of a proprietary, partnership, or corporate registrant, the successor entity shall file with the Office an amendment to the Form BD within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of such change. For registrants who are not members of FINRA, such amendment shall be filed with the Office through the REAL System. Any amendments to organizational documents, accompanying letters of explanation, or current financial statements of the successor shall be promptly submitted directly to the Office when specifically requested by the Office pursuant to section 517.201, F.S.

    (c) Merger Situations: Where there is a merger of dealer or investment adviser registrants involving the assumption by the successor of substantially all assets and liabilities of the merged entities and the continuation of the activities of the merged entities’ successor entity, the merging entities shall file notification with the Office denoting such changes as are applicable within thirty (30) calendar days prior to the date of such change. The successor entity shall file an amendment to Form BD denoting such changes as are applicable within thirty (30) calendar days of date of such change. For registrants who are not members of FINRA, each amendment shall be filed with the Office through the REAL System. A copy of the plan of merger/merger agreement, amended organizational documents, accompanying letters of explanation, or current financial statements of the successor (merged) entity shall be promptly submitted directly to the Office when specifically requested by the Office pursuant to section 517.201, F.S..

    (d) Change of Control:

    1. Where a person or a group of persons directly or indirectly or acting by or through one or more persons, proposes to acquire a controlling interest in a dealer or investment adviser registrant, and where the acquirer is currently registered with the Office, or where the acquirer has not within the preceding 10 years committed any reportable act as defined in Rule 69W-200.001, F.A.C., the resulting entity shall file with the Office an amendment to Form BD F.A.C., denoting such changes as are applicable thirty (30) calendar days prior to the date of such acquisition. Any amended organizational documents, accompanying letters of explanation, or financial statements of the resulting entity shall be promptly submitted directly to the Office when specifically requested by the Office.

    2. Where a person or a group of persons directly or indirectly or acting by or through one or more persons, proposes to acquire a controlling interest in a dealer or investment adviser registrant, and where the acquirer has within the preceding 10 years committed any reportable act as defined in Rule 69W-200.001, F.A.C., and is not currently registered with the Office, the resulting entity shall, prior to such acquisition, file with the Office a new application for registration on the forms prescribed by the Office, together with all required exhibits and fees. Additionally, there shall be filed with the Office, at the time the new application is filed, a notice of withdrawal, termination or cancellation of registration of the acquired entity on the forms prescribed by the Office, effective upon disposition of the new application by the Office. The Office may waive the requirements of this subsection where the Office determines it is not necessary, based upon the nature and substance of the proposed acquirer’s disciplinary history and experience, to require the filing of a new application for registration. Any person who receives a waiver of this subsection shall effect such change of control in compliance with the provisions of paragraph (11)(d)(1).

    3. For purposes of this subsection “controlling interest” means possession of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management or policies of a company, whether through ownership of securities, by contract or otherwise. Any individual or firm that directly or indirectly has the right to vote 25 percent or more of the voting securities of a company or is entitled to 25 percent or more of its profits is presumed to control that company.

    (e) For the purposes of paragraphs 11(b) and 11(c) of this rule,, in the event that a person(s) succeeds to and continues the business of a Florida registered dealer, the registration of the predecessor shall be deemed to remain effective as the registration of the successor for a period of thirty (30) calendar days after such succession, provided that an amendment to Form BD together with the accompanying documents when requested by the Office pursuant to section 517.201, F.S.,, is filed by the successor within thirty (30) calendar days after such succession.

    (f) For the purposes of paragraphs (11)(a), (11)(b), (11)(c), and (11)(d) of this rule, the effective registration of all associated persons and branch office notice-filings affiliated with the affected dealer registrant shall be transferred to the successor entity by the Office without necessitating the filing of new applications on behalf of such associated persons and notice-filings of such branch offices, unless notice of termination is filed for such persons and branch offices by the successor pursuant to paragraph (9) of this rule.

    Rulemaking Authority 517.03(1), 517.12 FS. Law Implemented 517.12 FS. History–New ________.

     

    69W-600.0013 Application for Registration as an Issuer/Dealer.

    (1) New Applications. 

    (a) Applicants for initial registration of issuer/dealers shall file the Uniform Application for Broker-Dealer Registration (Form BD) electronically on the Office of Financial Regulation’s website at https://real.flofr.com through the Regulatory Enforcement and Licensing (REAL) System as prescribed by the Financial Services Commission (Commission). The application shall include all information required by such forms, any other information the Commission or Office may require, and payment of the statutory fees required by Sections 517.12(10) and 517.131, F.S. The application shall be deemed received on the date the Office issues a confirmation of submission and payment to the applicant via the Office’s website. Every application or amendment filed pursuant to this rule shall constitute a “written application” within the meaning of Section 517.12(6), F.S.

    (b) An application shall include the following:

    1. Form BD (1-08), which is hereby incorporated by reference and available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/   /;

    2. Statutory fee in the amount required by Section 517.12(10), F.S.;

    3. A Uniform Application for Securities Industry Registration or Transfer (Form U-4) (05/2009), to register at least one principal as set forth in this rule. The Form U-4 is hereby incorporated by reference and available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/   /. In conjunction with filing its Form BD with the Office, the issuer/dealer shall provide the Office written notification of the principal’s name and social security number;

    4. Financial statements and reports required under Rules 69W-600.0151(5)(a), and 69W-600.017, F.A.C.;

    5. Any direct or indirect owner or control person required to be reported on Form BD, pursuant to Section 517.12(7), F.S., who is not currently registered in Florida with the firm they are seeking to join or act as a direct or indirect owner or control person shall comply with the fingerprinting requirements in accordance with paragraph (7) of this rule;

    6. Applicants for registration as an issuer/dealer must file Issuer/Dealer Compliance Form (OFR-DA-5-91) (effective 9/15), to meet requirements under paragraphs (5), (6), and (11) of this rule. The form is hereby incorporated by reference and is available at http://www.flrules.org/  /      or http://www.flofr.com/  /;

    7. A copy of the articles of incorporation and amendments thereto, if a partnership, a copy of the partnership agreement, or if a limited liability company, a copy of the articles of organization.

    (2) Request for Additional Information. All information required by paragraph (1) of this rule shall be submitted with the original application filing. Any request for additional documents or information shall be made by the Office within thirty (30) days after receipt of the application. The Office may require documentation to be certified by its issuer based upon the Office’s review of the nature and substance of the disciplinary history of the applicant and any officer, director, or ultimate owner in the case of a corporation or association, and any partner, co-partner, or member of the partnership in the case of a partnership. For purposes of this rule, “certified” means that there must be an original certification or attestation by the issuer of the record that the document is a true copy of a record contained in its office and its seal, if any. Additional information shall be submitted directly with the Office within sixty (60) days after a request has been made by the Office. Failure to respond to such request within sixty (60) days after the date of the request may be construed by the Office as grounds for denial of an application in accordance with the provisions of Section 120.60(1), F.S.

    (3) Amendment of Application. If the information contained in any application for registration as a dealer or in any amendment thereto, becomes inaccurate for any reason, the dealer shall file an amendment on the Form BD correcting such information within 30 days. Applicants and registrants shall file such amendments directly with the Office electronically through the REAL System. Requests to make changes which are material to the application or to the Office’s evaluation of the application filed at any time after the application has been received may be deemed by the Office to be grounds for denial, and a new application, accompanied by the appropriate filing fee, may be required.

    (4) Obligations Related to Acts of Associated Persons. A dealer shall be responsible for the acts, practices, and conduct of their registered associated persons in connection with the purchase and sale of securities or in connection with the rendering of investment advice until such time as they have been properly terminated as provided in this rule; and such dealer may be subject to assessment under Section 517.12(11), F.S., for such associated persons as have been terminated but for whom the appropriate termination notices have not been filed at date of license renewal.

    (5) Requirement to Maintain Principal and Exam Exemption for Associated Persons.

    (a) An issuer required to be registered or who elects to be registered pursuant to Section 517.12(1), 517.051(9) or 517.061(11), F.S., selling its own securities exclusively through its principals or agents (as those terms are defined in Section 517.021, F.S., and Rule 69W-200.001, F.A.C., respectively) may obtain registration as an issuer/dealer by filing as required under paragraphs (1) and (11) of this rule, or 69W-500.011, F.A.C., as appropriate, provided that:

    1. The associated persons of said issuer/dealer comply with the registration requirements of Section 517.12, F.S., and paragraphs (6) and (7) of this rule, provided that such person primarily performs, or is intended to perform at the end of the distribution, substantial duties for, or on behalf of, the issuer other than in connection with transactions in securities; and

    2. Said issuer/dealer may register up to five (5) associated persons, which persons shall be exempted from the examination requirements of paragraph (6) of this rule, provided such issuer/dealer shall register no more than five (5) associated persons, and at the time of application for registration advises the Office of its intention to register no more than five (5) associated persons. Failure to so advise the Office shall require all associated person applicants to fulfill the examination requirements of paragraph (6) of this rule. Registration of more than five (5) such associated persons, at any one time, shall void this exemption, and all such associated persons shall be required to meet the examination requirements of paragraph (6) of this rule.

    (b) Every applicant for registration and registrant under Section 517.12, F.S., as a dealer (as those terms are defined under Section 517.021, F.S.), unless effectively registered with the Office as an issuer/dealer prior to December 4, 1977, shall have and maintain at least one associated person qualified and registered as principal pursuant to Section 517.12, F.S., and the rules thereunder.

    1. In the event a registered dealer fails to maintain at least one person registered as principal for more than thirty (30) days, the registration of such dealer shall be suspended until such time as a qualified principal is so registered.

    2. Any applicant or registrant dealer may elect to register more than one person as principal; there is no limitation as to the number of associated persons that may be registered as principal as long as such persons meet the qualification standards as prescribed in paragraph (6) of this rule, and the appropriate fees as specified in Section 517.12(10), F.S., have been paid.

    (6) Examinations/Qualfications Requirements.

    (a) Every applicant for registration shall execute and submit a statement attesting to said applicant’s knowledge and review of the Florida Securities and Investor Protection Act, as contained in the Form U-4.

    (b) Every applicant for initial registration as a principal or agent of a dealer shall evidence securities general knowledge by:

    1. Submitting to the Office proof of passing, within two years of the date of application for registration, an appropriate examination relating to the position to be filled administered by a national securities association or a national securities exchange registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC); or

    2. Submitting to the Office evidence of effective registration, within the preceding two years, with a national securities association or national stock exchange registered with the SEC, relating to the position to be filled as principal or agent; or

    3. Having remained continuously registered in the capacity to be filled with the State of Florida without interruption of more than two years; or

    4. Having complied with the provisions of paragraph (5)(a) of this rule.

    (c) The examination requirement for associated persons of issuer dealers shall not apply to an individual who currently holds one of the following professional designations:

    1. Certified Financial Planner (TM) or CFP® awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc.;

    2. Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) awarded by the American College, Bryn Mawr, PA;

    3. Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) awarded by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants;

    4. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) awarded by the Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts; or

    5. Chartered Investment Counselor (CIC) awarded by the Investment Counsel Association of America, Inc.

    (7) Fingerprint Requirements.

    (a) Fingerprints filed in accordance with Section 517.12(7), F.S., shall be submitted to the Office through a live scan vendor approved by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and published on FDLE’s website for submission to FDLE and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for a state criminal background check and a federal criminal background check. The cost of fingerprint processing shall be borne by the applicant and paid directly to the live scan vendor.

    (b) Notwithstanding any exemptions found in SEC rule 17f-2 (17 C.F.R. § 240.17f-2), which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C., any direct owner, principal, or indirect owner that is required to be reported on Form BD, pursuant to Section 517.12(7), F.S., who is not currently registered in Florida with the firm they are seeking to join or act as a direct owner, principal, or indirect owner shall submit fingerprints to the Office through a live scan vendor approved by FDLE and published on FDLE’s website for submission to FDLE and the FBI for a state criminal background check and a federal criminal background check. The cost of fingerprint processing shall be borne by the applicant and paid directly to the live scan vendor.

    (8) Renewal Requirement.

    (a) Every dealer registered with the Office shall annually verify all registrations of associated persons and branch office notice-filings prior to December 31.

    (b) In addition to verifying registration or notice-filings as provided in paragraph (8)(a), to renew its registration and the registrations of its associated persons and branch office notice-filings, each dealer shall pay all renewal fees as required by Sections 517.12(11) and 517.1202(3), F.S.

    (c) Renewal fees for issuer/dealers, associated persons of issuer/dealers and all branch offices of issuer/dealers shall be filed electronically on the Office’s website at https://real.flofr.com through the REAL System and shall be deemed received on the date the Office issues a confirmation of submission and payment to the applicant via the Office’s website. All renewal fees must be received by the Office by December 31 of the year the registration or notice-filing expires.

    (d) For issuer/dealers, failure to submit the requisite amount of fees as provided for in paragraph (8)(b) by December 31 of the year of expiration of the registration shall result in the firm registration, agent registration, or branch office notice-filing not being renewed. If December 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the renewals received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. However, an expired registration or notice-filing may be reinstated in accordance with Section 517.12(11) or 517.1202(3), F.S., provided that all requisite information and fees are filed electronically on the Office’s website at https://real.flofr.com through the REAL System on or before January 31 of the year following the year of expiration. Failure to submit the requisite amount of fees necessary to reinstate registration by January 31 of the year following the year of expiration shall result in such registration or notice-filing not being reinstated. If January 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the reinstatement received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. If the renewal or reinstatement is withdrawn or not granted, any fees filed to renew or reinstate registration or notice-filing shall become the revenue of the state pursuant to the provisions of Section 517.12(10) or 517.1202(8), F.S., and shall not be returnable.

    (9) Termination of Registration as Dealer, Principal or Agent, or Notificaton of Branch Office.

    (a) Where a registrant withdraws, cancels, or otherwise terminates registration, or is terminated for any reason, notice of such fact shall be electronically filed with the Office through the REAL System using the forms incorporated in paragraph (9)(c) of this rule within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of termination.

    (b) The Office may deny any request to terminate or withdraw any application or registration as provided under Section 517.161(5), F.S.

    (c) The forms to be utilized for providing notice to the Office under paragraphs (9)(a) and (9)(b) are:

    1. Uniform Request for Broker Dealer Withdrawal (Form BDW) (04-07), which is hereby incorporated by reference and available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/   /.

    2. Uniform Branch Office Registration Form (Form BR) (10-05), which is hereby incorporated by reference and available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/   /.

    3. Uniform Termination Notice for Securities Industry Registration (Form U-5) (05-09), which is hereby incorporated by reference and available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/  /.

    (10) Notice of Civil, Criminal or Administrative Action.  An issuer/dealer shall:

    (a) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date a complaint is served, of any civil, criminal or administrative charges filed against the firm or owner which directly or indirectly relate to the registration or sale of securities, or which directly or indirectly relate to the activities as a dealer, investment adviser, principal or agent, or any other activity where a breach of a fiduciary trust is alleged. This shall not include minor traffic violations; but shall include any notification of investigation by any recognized regulatory agency;

    (b) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date filed, any answer or reply to any complaint filed as outlined in paragraph (10)(a);

    (c) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of decision, order, or sanction rendered, or any appeal filed with respect to such decision with regard to any complaint outlined in paragraph (10)(a).

    (d) File with the Office one (1) copy of such complaint, answer or reply, decision, order, or sanction at the time of notification in accordance with paragraphs (10)(a), (10)(b), and (10)(c). An issuer/dealer shall file such notifications with the Office through the REAL System in accordance with this rule.

    (11) Registration of Issuer as an Issuer/Dealer under Section 517.051(9), F.S. An issuer of securities who elects to offer or sell its own securities pursuant to Section 517.051(9), F.S., is required to be registered as an issuer/dealer pursuant to Section 517.12(2), F.S. The issuer shall comply with the rules of the Commisssion for registration as an issuer/dealer as set forth under paragraph (1) of this rule, in addition to the following requirements:

    (a) The financial statements required for registration as an issuer/dealer shall be prepared in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 69W-600.0151(5)(b)(2), F.A.C.

    (b) The applicant for registration as an issuer/dealer or principal shall comply with the examination requirements of paragraph (6) of this rule.

    (c) The issuer/dealer shall comply with the net capital requirements of subparagraph 69W-600.0151(3)(b), F.A.C.

    Rulemaking Authority 517.03(1), 517.12 FS. Law Implemented 517.12 FS. History–New ________.

     

    69W-600.0016 Application for Registration as an Investment Adviser (State Registered)

    (1) New Applications.

    (a) Applicants for initial registration of an investment adviser shall file the Uniform Application for Investment Adviser Registration (Form ADV) electronically through the Investment Adviser Registration Depository (IARD) of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) as prescribed by the Financial Services Commission (Commission). The application shall include all information required by such form, any other information the Commission or Office may require, and payment of the statutory fees required by Sections 517.12(10) and 517.131, F.S. The application shall be deemed received by the Office on the “payment date” reflected on the CRD “disbursement detail” report.  Every application or amendment filed pursuant to this rule shall constitute a “written application” within the meaning of Section 517.12(6), F.S.

    (b) An application shall include the following:

    1. Form ADV (09-11). A sample form is hereby incorporated by reference and is available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/   /;

    2. Statutory fee in the amount required by Section 517.12(10), F.S.;

    3. A Uniform Application for Securities Industry Registration or Transfer (Form U-4) to register at least one agent to designate as a principal as set forth in this rule. Form U-4 (05-09) is hereby incorporated by reference and a sample form is available at http://www.flrules.org/  / or http://www.flofr.com/   /.  In conjunction with filing its Form ADV with the Office, the investment adviser shall provide the Office written notification of the principal’s name and CRD number or social security number;

    4. Financial statements and reports required under Rule 69W-600.0161(2), F.A.C.;

    5. Any direct or indirect owner or control person required to be reported on Form ADV, pursuant to Section 517.12(7), F.S., who is not currently registered with the firm they are seeking to join or act as a direct or indirect owner or control person shall comply with the fingerprinting requirements in accordance with paragraph (7) of this rule; and

    6. A copy of the articles of incorporation and amendments thereto, if a partnership, a copy of the partnership agreement, or if a limited liability company, a copy of the articles of organization.

    (2) Request for Additional Information. All information required by paragraph (1) of this rule shall be submitted with the original application filing. Any request for additional documents or information shall be made by the Office within thirty (30) days after receipt of the application. The Office may require documentation to be certified by its issuer based upon the Office’s review of the nature and substance of the disciplinary history of the applicant and any officer, director, or ultimate owner in the case of a corporation or association, and any partner, co-partner, or member of the partnership in the case of a partnership. For purposes of this rule, “certified” means that there must be an original certification or attestation by the issuer of the record that the document is a true copy of a record contained in its office and its seal, if any. Additional information shall be submitted directly with the Office within sixty (60) days after a request has been made by the Office. Failure to respond to such request within sixty (60) days after the date of the request may be construed by the Office as grounds for denial of an application in accordance with the provisions of Section 120.60(1), F.S.

    (3) Amendment of Application. If the information contained in any application for registration as an investment adviser or in any amendment thereto, becomes inaccurate for any reason, the investment adviser shall file an amendment on the Form ADV correcting such information within 30 days. For investment adviser applicants and registrants who file via the IARD, each such amendment, including those required by paragraph (10) of this rule, shall be filed with the Office through the IARD in accordance with this rule. Requests to make changes which are material to the application or to the Office’s evaluation of the application filed at any time after the application has been received may be deemed by the Office to be grounds for denial, and a new application, accompanied by the appropriate filing fee, may be required.

    (4) Obligations Related to Acts of Associated Persons. An investment adviser shall be responsible for the acts, practices, and conduct of their registered associated persons in connection with the purchase and sale of securities or in connection with the rendering of investment advice until such time as they have been properly terminated as provided in this rule; and such adviser may be subject to assessment under Section 517.12(11), F.S., for such associated persons as have been terminated but for whom the appropriate termination notices have not been filed at date of license renewal.

    (5) Requirement to Maintain Principal.

    (a) Every applicant for registration and registrant under Section 517.12, F.S., as an investment adviser (as those terms are defined under Section 517.021, F.S.) shall have and maintain at least one associated person registered and designated as principal pursuant to Section 517.12, F.S., and the rules thereunder.

    (b) In the event an investment adviser fails to maintain at least one person registered and designated as principal for more than thirty (30) days, the registration of such investment adviser shall be suspended until such time as a designated principal is so registered.

    (c) Any applicant or registrant investment adviser may elect to designate more than one person as principal; there is no limitation as to the number of associated persons that may be designated as principal as long as such persons meet the qualification standards as prescribed in paragraph (6) of this rule, and the appropriate fees as specified in Section 517.12(10), F.S., have been paid.

    (6) Examinations/Qualfications Requirements.

    (a) Every applicant for registration shall execute and submit a statement attesting to said applicant’s knowledge and review of the Florida Securities and Investor Protection Act, as contained in the Form U-4.

    (b) An individual applying to be registered as an investment adviser or investment adviser representative shall provide the Office with proof of passing, within two years of the date of application for registration, one of the following examinations:

    1. The Uniform Investment Adviser Law Examination (Series 65) or

    2. The General Securities Representative Examination (Series 7) and the Uniform Combined State Law Examination (Series 66).

    (c) Grandfathering Provisions:

    1. Any individual who is registered as an investment adviser or investment adviser representative in any jurisdiction in the United States on the effective date of this rule shall not be required to satisfy the examination requirements for continued registration except that the Office may require additional examinations for any individual found to have violated any state or federal securities law.

    2. An individual who has not been registered in any jurisdiction in the United States as an investment adviser or investment adviser representative within two years of the date of application for registration shall be required to comply with the examination requirements of this rule.

    (d) The examination requirement for investment adviser representatives shall not apply to an individual who currently holds one of the following professional designations:

    1. Certified Financial Planner (TM) or CFP® awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc.;

    2. Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) awarded by the American College, Bryn Mawr, PA;

    3. Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) awarded by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants;

    4. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) awarded by the Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts; or

    5. Chartered Investment Counselor (CIC) awarded by the Investment Counsel Association of America, Inc.

    (7) Fingerprint Requirements.

    (a) Fingerprints filed in accordance with Section 517.12(7), F.S., shall be submitted to the Office through a live scan vendor approved by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and published on FDLE’s website for submission to FDLE and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for a state criminal background check and a federal criminal background check. The cost of fingerprint processing shall be borne by the applicant and paid directly to the live scan vendor.

    (b) Notwithstanding any exemptions found in SEC rule 17f-2 (17 C.F.R. § 240.17f-2), which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C., any direct owner, principal, or indirect owner that is required to be reported on Form ADV pursuant to Section 517.12(7), F.S., who is not currently registered in Florida with the firm they are seeking to join or act as a direct owner, principal, or indirect owner shall submit fingerprints to the Office through a live scan vendor approved by FDLE and published on FDLE’s website for submission to FDLE and the FBI for a state criminal background check and a federal criminal background check. The cost of fingerprint processing shall be borne by the applicant and paid directly to the live scan vendor.

    (c) The requirement to submit fingerprints is waived for any direct owner, principal, or indirect owner that is required to be reported on Form ADV pursuant to Section 517.12(7), F.S., if fingerprints have been submitted and processed by FINRA on behalf of the member firm with which the owner or principal is affiliated, pursuant to the provisions of SEC Rule 17f-2 (17 C.F.R. § 240.17f-2).

    (8) Renewal Requirement.

    (a) Every investment adviser registered with the Office shall annually verify all registrations of associated persons and branch office notice-filings prior to December 31.

    (b) In addition to verifying registration or notice-filings as provided in paragraph (8)(a), to renew its registration and the registrations of its associated persons and branch office notice-filings, each investment adviser shall pay all renewal fees as required by Sections 517.12(11) and 517.1202(3), F.S.

    (c) Renewal fees for investment advisers shall be submitted through the IARD by December 31 of the year the registration expires. Renewal fees for associated persons of investment advisers and branch offices of investment advisers shall be submitted through the CRD by December 31 of the year the registration or notice-filing expires.

    (d) For investment advisers, failure to submit the requisite amount of fees as provided for in paragraph (8)(b) by December 31 of the year of expiration of the registration shall result in the firm registration, agent registration, or branch office notice-filing not being renewed. If December 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the renewals received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. However, an expired registration or notice-filing may be reinstated in accordance with the provisions of Section 517.12(11) or 517.1202(3), F.S., provided that all requisite information and fees are date stamped by the cashier’s office of the Department of Financial Services on or before January 31 of the year following the year of expiration. Failure to submit the requisite amount of fees necessary to reinstate registration or notice-filing by January 31 of the year following the year of expiration shall result in such registration or notice-filing not being reinstated. If January 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the reinstatement received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. In the event that the renewal or reinstatement is withdrawn or not granted, any fees filed to renew or reinstate registration or notice-filing shall become the revenue of the state pursuant to the provisions of Section 517.12(10) or 517.1202(8), F.S., and shall not be returnable.

    (9) Termination of Registration as an Investment Adviser, Agent, or Notificaton of Branch Office.

    (a) Where a registrant withdraws, cancels, or otherwise terminates registration, or is terminated for any reason, notice of such fact shall be electronically filed with the Office using the forms incorporated in paragraph (9)(c) of this rule within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of withdrawal, cancellation, or termination.

    (b) Any investment adviser shall file any withdrawals, cancellations, or terminations of registration with the Office through the IARD of FINRA. Any associated person or branch office of an investment adviser shall file any withdrawals, cancellations, or terminations of registrations or notifications with the Office through the CRD.

    (c) The Office may deny any request to terminate or withdraw any application or registration as provided under Section 517.161(5), F.S.

    (d) The forms to be utilized for providing notice to the Office under paragraphs (9)(a) and (9)(b) are:

    1. Notice of Withdrawal from Registration as Investment Adviser (Form ADV-W). (11-10).  A sample form is hereby incorporated by reference and is available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/   /.

    2. Uniform Termination Notice for Securities Industry Registration (Form U-5) (05/09)  A sample form is hereby incorporated by reference and is available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/   /.

    (10) Notice of Civil, Criminal or Administrative Action. An investment adviser shall:

    (a) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date a complaint is served, of any civil, criminal or administrative charges filed against the firm or owner which directly or indirectly relate to the registration or sale of securities, or which directly or indirectly relate to the activities as a dealer, investment adviser, principal or agent, or any other activity where a breach of a fiduciary trust is alleged. This shall not include minor traffic violations; but shall include any notification of investigation by any recognized regulatory agency;

    (b) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date filed, any answer or reply to any complaint filed as outlined in paragraph (10)(a);

    (c) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of decision, order, or sanction rendered, or any appeal filed with respect to such decision with regard to any complaint outlined in paragraph (10)(a); and

    (d) File with the Office one (1) copy of such complaint, answer or reply, decision, order, or sanction at the time of notification in accordance with paragraphs (10)(a), (10)(b), and (10)(c). An investment adviser shall file such notifications with the Office through the IARD of the FINRA in accordance with this rule. However, responses to requests by the Office for additional information shall be filed directly with the Office.

    (11) Changes in Name and Successor Registration Requirements.

    (a) Where only a change in the name of an applicant or registrant as an investment adviser or associated person occurs, notices of such fact shall be filed as an amendment on the forms prescribed by the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of such change. For registrants who are members of the FINRA, such amendment shall be filed with the Office through the CRD pursuant to paragraph (1) of this rule. Any amendments to organizational documents or accompanying letters of explanation shall be promptly submitted to the Office when specifically requested by the Office pursuant to section 517.201, F.S.

    (b) Where there is a change in legal entity of a proprietary, partnership, or corporate registrant, the successor entity shall file with the Office an amendment to the Form ADV within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of such change. Such amendment shall be filed with the Office through the IARD pursuant to paragraph (1) of this rule. Any amendments to organizational documents, accompanying letters of explanation, or current financial statements of the successor shall be promptly submitted directly to the Office when specifically requested by the Office pursuant to section 517.201, F.S.

    (c) Merger Situations: Where there is a merger of an investment adviser registrant involving the assumption by the successor of substantially all assets and liabilities of the merged entities and the continuation of the activities of the merged entities’ successor entity, the merging entities shall file notification with the Office denoting such changes as are applicable within thirty (30) calendar days prior to the date of such change. The successor entity shall file an amendment to Form ADV denoting such changes as are applicable within thirty (30) calendar days of date of such change. Each amendment shall be filed with the Office through the IARD pursuant to paragraph (1) of this rule. A copy of the plan of merger/merger agreement, amended organizational documents, accompanying letters of explanation, or current financial statements of the successor (merged) entity shall be promptly submitted directly to the Office when specifically requested by the Office pursuant to section 517.201, F.S.

    (d) Change of Control:

    1. Where a person or a group of persons directly or indirectly or acting by or through one or more persons, proposes to acquire a controlling interest in a dealer or investment adviser registrant, and where the acquirer is currently registered with the Office, or where the acquirer has not within the preceding 10 years committed any reportable act as defined in Rule 69W-200.001, F.A.C., the resulting entity shall file with the Office an amendment to Form ADV denoting such changes as are applicable thirty (30) calendar days prior to the date of such acquisition. Any amended organizational documents, accompanying letters of explanation, or financial statements of the resulting entity shall be promptly submitted directly to the Office when specifically requested by the Office pursuant to section 517.201, F.S.

    2. Where a person or a group of persons directly or indirectly or acting by or through one or more persons, proposes to acquire a controlling interest in a dealer or investment adviser registrant, and where the acquirer has within the preceding 10 years committed any reportable act as defined in Rule 69W-200.001, F.A.C., and is not currently registered with the Office, the resulting entity shall, prior to such acquisition, file with the Office a new application for registration on the forms prescribed by the Office, together with all required exhibits and fees. Additionally, there shall be filed with the Office, at the time the new application is filed, a notice of withdrawal, termination or cancellation of registration of the acquired entity on the forms prescribed by the Office, effective upon disposition of the new application by the Office. The Office may waive the requirements of this subsection where the Office determines it is not necessary, based upon the nature and substance of the proposed acquirer’s disciplinary history and experience, to require the filing of a new application for registration. Any person who receives a waiver of this subsection shall effect such change of control in compliance with the provisions of paragraph(11)(d)(1).

    3. For purposes of this subsection “controlling interest” means possession of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management or policies of a company, whether through ownership of securities, by contract or otherwise. Any individual or firm that directly or indirectly has the right to vote 25 percent or more of the voting securities of a company or is entitled to 25 percent or more of its profits is presumed to control that company.

    (e) For the purposes of paragraphs (11)(b) and (11)(c) of this rule, in the event that a person(s) succeeds to and continues the business of a Florida registered dealer or investment adviser, the registration of the predecessor shall be deemed to remain effective as the registration of the successor for a period of thirty (30) calendar days after such succession, provided that an amendment to Form ADV together with the accompanying documents as prescribed heretofore, is filed by the successor within thirty (30) calendar days after such succession.

    (f) For the purposes of paragraphs (11)(a), (11)(b), (11)(c), and (11)(d) of this rule, the effective registration of all associated persons and branch office notice-filings affiliated with the affected or investment adviser registrant shall be transferred to the successor entity by the Office without necessitating the filing of new applications on behalf of such associated persons and notice-filings of such branch offices, unless notice of termination is filed for such persons and branch offices by the successor pursuant to paragraph (9) of this rule.

    Rulemaking Authority 517.03(1), 517.12 FS. Law Implemented 517.12 FS. History–New ________.

     

    69W-600.0017 Notice-Filing for Federal Covered Advisers

    (1) New Notice-Filings.

    (a) The notice-filing for federal covered advisers shall be filed electronically through the Investment Adviser Registration Depository (IARD) of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) using the Uniform Application for Investment Adviser Registration (Form ADV) as prescribed by the Financial Services Commission (Commission). The notice-filing shall include all information required by such form, such information that has been filed or is required to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and payment of the statutory fees required by Sections 517.1201and 517.131, F.S. The notice-filing shall be deemed received by the Office on the transaction date (Trans DT) reflected on the Central Registration Depository (CRD) of FINRA “disbursement detail” report.

    (b) All federal covered advisers making or amending a notice-filing in this state shall file the Form ADV, Part 1, including copies of any amendments filed or required to be filed with the SEC, and the assessment fee required by Section 517.1201(1) or (2), F.S., with the IARD in accordance with paragraph (1). Form ADV (09-11) is hereby incorporated by reference, and a sample form is available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/    /.

    (2) Registration of Associated Persons. All federal covered advisers who notice-file in this state and who request initial registration or amendment of an associated person of the federal covered adviser shall file the Uniform Application for Securities Industry Registration or Transfer (Form U-4) and the assessment fee required by Section 517.12(10) or (11), F.S., with the CRD in accordance with Rule 69W-600.0024, F.A.C.  However, responses to requests by the Office for additional information shall be filed directly with the Office. Form U-4 (05/2009) is hereby incorporated by reference and a sample form is available at http://www.flrules.org/    / or http://www.flofr.com/    /.

    (3) Renewal Requirement.

    (a) Every federal covered adviser notice-filed with the Office shall annually verify all registrations of associated persons prior to December 31.

    (b) In addition to verifying registrations as provided in paragraph (3)(a), to renew its notice-filing and the registrations of its associated persons, each investment adviser shall pay all renewal fees as required by Sections 517.12(11) and 517.1201, F.S.

    (c) Renewal fees for federal covered advisers shall be submitted through the IARD by December 31 of the year the notice-filing expires. Renewal fees for associated persons of federal covered advisers shall be submitted through the CRD by December 31 of the year the registration expires.

    (d) For federal covered advisers, failure to submit the requisite amount of fees as provided for in paragraph (4)(b) by December 31 of the year of expiration of the notice-filing shall result in the firm notice-filing or agent registration not being renewed. If December 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the renewals received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. However, an expired registration or notice-filing may be reinstated in accordance with the provisions of Section 517.12(11) or 517.1201, F.S., provided that all requisite information and fees are date stamped by the cashier’s office of the Department of Financial Services on or before January 31 of the year following the year of expiration. Failure to submit the requisite amount of fees necessary to reinstate registration or notice-filing by January 31 of the year following the year of expiration shall result in such registration or notice-filing not being reinstated. If January 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the reinstatement received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. In the event that the renewal or reinstatement is withdrawn or not granted, any fees filed to renew or reinstate registration or notice-filing shall become the revenue of the state pursuant to the provisions of Section 517.12(10) or 517.1201, F.S., and shall not be returnable.

    (4) Termination of Notification as Investment Adviser or Registration as Agent.

    (a) Where a federal covered adviser withdraws, cancels, or otherwise terminates notification, or is terminated for any reason, notice of such fact shall be electronically filed with the Office  using the forms incorporated in paragraph (4)(c) of this rulewithin thirty (30) calendar days of the date of termination.

    (b) Any investment adviser shall file any withdrawals, cancellations, or notice-filing terminations with the Office through the IARD of FINRA. Any associated person of an investment adviser shall file any withdrawals, cancellations, or terminations of registration with the Office through the CRD.

    (c) The forms to be utilized for providing notice to the Office under paragraphs (4)(a) and (4)(b) above are:

    1. Notice of Withdrawal from Registration as Investment Adviser (Form ADV-W) (11-10).  A sample form is hereby incorporated by reference and is available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/   /.

    2. Uniform Termination Notice for Securities Industry Registration (Form U-5) (05/09)  A sample form is hereby incorporated by reference and is available at http://www.flrules.org/    / or http://www.flofr.com/   /.

    Rulemaking Authority 517.03(1), 517.1201 FS. Law Implemented 517.1201 FS. History–New ________.

     

    69W-600.0022 Application for Registration as Associated Person (Non-FINRA Dealer)

    (1) New Applications.

    (a) Applicants for initial registration as a principal or associated person of dealers who are not members of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) shall file the Uniform Application for Securities Industry Registration or Transfer (Form U-4) electronically on the Office of Financial Regulation’s website at https://real.flofr.com through the Regulatory Enforcement and Licensing (REAL) System as prescribed by the Financial Services Commission (Commission).  The application shall include all information required by such form, any other information the Office of Financial Regulation (Office) may require, and payment of the statutory fees required by Section 517.12(10), F.S.  The application shall be deemed received on the date the Office issues a confirmation of submission and payment to the applicant via the Office’s website.  Every application or amendment filed pursuant to this rule shall constitute a “written application” within the meaning of Section 517.12(6), F.S.

    (b) An application shall include the following:

    1. Form U-4 (05/2009), which is hereby incorporated by reference and available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/    /.

    2. Statutory fee, for each application, in the amount as required by Section 517.12(10), F.S.

    3. Evidence of examinations/qualifications set forth in paragraph (6) of this rule.

    4. Fingerprints shall be submitted in accordance with Section 517.12(7), F.S., and paragraph (7) of this rule.

    (2) Request for Additional Information. All information required by paragraph (1) of this rule shall be submitted with the original application filing. Any request for additional documents or information shall be made by the Office within thirty (30) days after receipt of the application. The Office may require documentation to be certified by its issuer based upon the Office’s review of the nature and substance of the disciplinary history of the applicant. For purposes of this rule, “certified” means that there must be an original certification or attestation by the issuer of the record that the document is a true copy of a record contained in its office and its seal, if any. Additional information shall be submitted directly with the Office within sixty (60) days after a request has been made by the Office. Failure to respond to such request within sixty (60) days after the date of the request may be construed by the Office as grounds for denial of an application in accordance with the provisions of Section 120.60(1), F.S.

    (3) Amendment of Application. If the information contained in any Form U-4 becomes inaccurate for any reason before or after the associated person becomes registered, the associated person through the dealer, shall be responsible for correcting the inaccurate information within thirty (30) days. If the information being updated relates to the applicant’s or registrant’s disciplinary history, in addition to updating the Form U-4, the associated person through the dealer shall also provide the Office with notice and copies of each civil, criminal or administrative action initiated against the associated person as provided in paragraph (10) of this rule. Associated persons of non-FINRA firms shall file such amendments electronically with the Office through the REAL System.

    (4) Multiple Registration. An applicant for registration as an associated person may apply to be registered as an associated person of more than one dealer, issuer/dealer, federal covered adviser or investment adviser, or any combination thereof, by the filing of separate applications by each registered dealer, issuer/dealer, federal covered adviser or investment adviser, and payment of separate application fees as required.

    (5) Alternate Business Name.

    (a) It is prohibited for any associated person to conduct securities business in this state under any name other than that of the dealer with which the associated person is registered unless each of the following conditions is met:

    1. The business conducted does not violate or evade any provision of Chapter 517, F.S.;

    2. The business conducted does not fall within the definition of “dealer” or “investment adviser” as used in Chapter 517, F.S.; and

    3. The dealer with which the associated person is registered has received written notice of the name under which business shall be conducted.

    (6) Examinations/Qualifications.

    (a) Every applicant for registration shall execute and submit a statement attesting to said applicant’s knowledge and review of the Florida Securities and Investor Protection Act, as contained in the Form U-4.

    (b) Every applicant for initial registration as a principal or agent of a dealer shall evidence securities general knowledge by:

    1. Submitting to the Office proof of passing, within two years of the date of application for registration, an appropriate examination relating to the position to be filled administered by a national securities association or a national securities exchange registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC); or

    2. Submitting to the Office evidence of effective registration, within the preceding two years, with a national securities association or national stock exchange registered with the SEC, relating to the position to be filled as principal or agent; or

    3. Having remained continuously registered in the capacity to be filled with the State of Florida without interruption of more than two years.

    (7) Fingerprint Requirements.

    (a) Fingerprints filed in accordance with Section 517.12(7), F.S., shall be submitted to the Office through a live scan vendor approved by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and published on FDLE’s website for submission to FDLE and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for a state criminal background check and a federal criminal background check. The cost of fingerprint processing shall be borne by the applicant and paid directly to the live scan vendor.

    (b) Notwithstanding any exemptions found in SEC rule 17f-2 (17 C.F.R. § 240.17f-2), which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C., any direct owner, principal, or indirect owner that is required to be reported on Form BD, Uniform Application for Broker-Dealer Registration, pursuant to Section 517.12(7), F.S., who is not currently registered with the firm they are seeking to join or act as a direct owner, principal, or indirect owner shall submit fingerprints to the Office through a live scan vendor approved by FDLE and published on FDLE’s website for submission to FDLE and the FBI for a state criminal background check and a federal criminal background check. The cost of fingerprint processing shall be borne by the applicant and paid directly to the live scan vendor.

    (8) Renewal Requirement.

    (a) Renewal fees for associated persons of non-FINRA member firms shall be filed by the firm electronically on the Office’s website at https://real.flofr.com through the REAL System and shall be deemed received on the date the Office issues a confirmation of submission and payment to the applicant via the Office’s website as required by Section 517.12(11), F.S. All renewal fees must be received by the Office by December 31 of the year the registration expires.

    (b) For associated persons of dealers that are not members of FINRA, failure of the firm to submit the requisite amount of fees by December 31 of the year of expiration of the registration shall result in such registration not being renewed. If December 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the renewals received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. However, an expired registration may be reinstated in accordance with Section 517.12(11), F.S., provided that all requisite information and fees are filed electronically on the Office’s website at https://real.flofr.com through the REAL System on or before January 31 of the year following the year of expiration. Failure to submit the requisite amount of fees necessary to reinstate registration by January 31 of the year following the year of expiration shall result in such registration not being reinstated. If January 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the reinstatement received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. If the renewal or reinstatement is withdrawn or not granted, any fees filed to renew or reinstate registration shall become the revenue of the state pursuant to Section 517.12(10), F.S., and shall not be returnable.

    (9) Termination of Registration of Principal or Agent.

    (a) Where a registrant withdraws, cancels, or otherwise terminates registration, or is terminated for any reason, notice of such fact shall be filed with the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of termination by electronically filing a Uniform Termination Notice for Securities Industry Registration (Form U5) (05/2009) with the Office through the CRD. A sample form is hereby incorporated by reference and is available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/    /.

    (b) The Office may deny any request to terminate or withdraw any application or registration as provided under Section 517.161(5), F.S.

    (10) Notice of Civil, Criminal or Administrative Action. An associated person shall:

    (a) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date a complaint is served, of any civil, criminal or administrative charges filed that directly or indirectly relate to the registration or sale of securities, or which directly or indirectly relate to activities as a principal or agent, or any other activity where a breach of a fiduciary trust is alleged. This shall not include minor traffic violations; but shall include any notification of investigation by any recognized regulatory agency;

    (b) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date filed, any answer or reply to any complaint filed as outlined in paragraph (10)(a);

    (c) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of decision, order, or sanction rendered, or any appeal filed with respect to such decision with regard to any complaint outlined in paragraph (10)(a); and

    (d) File with the Office one (1) copy of such complaint, answer or reply, decision, order, or sanction at the time of notification in accordance with paragraphs (10)(a), (10)(b), and (10)(c).  Associated persons of a broker dealer who is not a member of the FINRA (formerly known as the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.) shall file such notifications with the Office through the REAL System.

    (11) Continuing Education Requirement.

    Failure to comply with any of the applicable continuing education requirements set forth in any one of the following shall be deemed a demonstration of unworthiness by an associated person under Section 517.161(1)(h), F.S.:

    (a) Rule 345A of the NYSE MKT LLC, which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C.;

    (b) Rule G-3(h) of the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board, which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C.;

    (c) Rule 341A of NYSE MKT LLC, which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C.;

    (d) Article VI, Rule 11 of the Chicago Stock Exchange which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C.

    Rulemaking Authority 517.03(1), 517.12 FS. Law Implemented 517.12 FS. History–New ________.

     

    69W-600.0023 Application for Registration as Associated Person (Issuer/Dealer)

    (1) New Applications.

    (a) Applicants for initial registration as a principal or associated person of an issuer/dealer shall file the Uniform Application for Securities Industry Registration or Transfer (Form U-4) electronically on the Office of Financial Regulation’s website at https://real.flofr.com through the Regulatory Enforcement and Licensing (REAL) System as prescribed by the Financial Services Commission (Commission). The application shall include all information required by such form, any other information the Office of Financial Regulation (Office) may require, and payment of the statutory fees required by Section 517.12(10), F.S. The application shall be deemed received on the date the Office issues a confirmation of submission and payment to the applicant via the Office’s website.  Every application or amendment filed pursuant to this rule shall constitute a “written application” within the meaning of Section 517.12(6), F.S.

    (b) An application shall include the following:

    1. Form U-4 (05/2009), which is hereby incorporated by reference and available at http://www.flrules.org/ or http://www.flofr.com/.

    2. Statutory fee, for each application, in the amount as required by Section 517.12(10), F.S.

    3. Evidence of examinations/qualifications set forth in paragraph (6) of this rule.

    4. Fingerprints shall be submitted in accordance with Section 517.12(7), F.S., and paragraph (7) of this rule.

    (2) Request for Additional Information. All information required by paragraph (1) of this rule shall be submitted with the original application filing. Any request for additional documents or information shall be made by the Office within thirty (30) days after receipt of the application. The Office may require documentation to be certified by its issuer based upon the Office’s review of the nature and substance of the disciplinary history of the applicant. For purposes of this rule, “certified” means that there must be an original certification or attestation by the issuer of the record that the document is a true copy of a record contained in its office and its seal, if any. Additional information shall be submitted directly with the Office within sixty (60) days after a request has been made by the Office. Failure to respond to such request within sixty (60) days after the date of the request may be construed by the Office as grounds for denial of an application in accordance with the provisions of Section 120.60(1), F.S.

    (3) Amendment of Application. If the information contained in any Form U-4 becomes inaccurate for any reason before or after the associated person becomes registered, the associated person through the dealer shall be responsible for correcting the inaccurate information within thirty (30) days. If the information being updated relates to the applicant’s or registrant’s disciplinary history, in addition to updating the Form U-4, the associated person through the dealer shall also provide the Office with notice and copies of each civil, criminal or administrative action initiated against the associated person as provided in paragraph (10) of this rule. Associated persons of issuer/dealers shall file such amendments electronically with the Office through the REAL System.

    (4) Multiple Registration An applicant for registration as an associated person may apply to be registered as an associated person of more than one dealer, issuer/dealer, federal covered adviser or investment adviser, or any combination thereof, by the filing of separate applications by each registered dealer, issuer/dealer, federal covered adviser or investment adviser, and payment of separate application fees as required.

    (5) Alternate Business Name.

    (a) An issuer required to be registered or who elects to be registered pursuant to Section 517.12(1), 517.051(9) or 517.061(11), F.S., selling its own securities exclusively through its principals or agents (as those terms are defined in Section 517.021, F.S., and Rule 69W-200.001, F.A.C., respectively) may obtain registration as an issuer/dealer by filing as required under paragraph (1) of this rule, Rule 69W-500.011 or 69W-600.0013, F.A.C., as appropriate, provided that:

    1. The associated persons of said issuer/dealer comply with the registration requirements of Section 517.12, F.S., and paragraphs (6) and (7) of this rule, provided that such person primarily performs, or is intended to perform at the end of the distribution, substantial duties for, or on behalf of, the issuer other than in connection with transactions in securities;

    2. Said issuer/dealer may register up to five (5) associated persons, which persons shall be exempted from the examination requirements of paragraph (6) of this rule, provided such issuer/dealer shall register no more than five (5) associated persons, and at the time of application for registration advises the Office of its intention to register no more than five (5) associated persons. Failure to so advise the Office shall require all associated person applicants to fulfill the examination requirements of paragraph (6) of this rule. Registration of more than five (5) such associated persons, at any one time, shall void this exemption, and all such associated persons shall be required to meet the examination requirements of paragraph (6) of this rule.

    (b) It is prohibited for any associated person to conduct securities business in this state under any name other than that of the dealer with which the associated person is registered unless each of the following conditions is met:

    1. The business conducted does not violate or evade any provision of Chapter 517, F.S.;

    2. The business conducted does not fall within the definition of “dealer” or “investment adviser” as used in Chapter 517, F.S.; and

    3. The dealer with which the associated person is registered has received written notice of the name under which business shall be conducted.

    (c) Associated persons exempted from the examination requirements as provided by paragraph (5)(a)(2), may not be registered with more than one (1) issuer/dealer at the same time.

    (6) Examinations/Qualifications.

    (a) Every applicant for registration shall execute and submit a statement attesting to said applicant’s knowledge and review of the Florida Securities and Investor Protection Act, as contained in the Form U-4.

    (b) Every applicant for initial registration as a principal or agent of a dealer shall evidence securities general knowledge by:

    1. Submitting to the Office proof of passing, within two years of the date of application for registration, an appropriate examination relating to the position to be filled administered by a national securities association or a national securities exchange registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC); or

    2. Submitting to the Office evidence of effective registration, within the preceding two years, with a national securities association or national stock exchange registered with the SEC, relating to the position to be filled as principal or agent.

    3. Having remained continuously registered in the capacity to be filled with the State of Florida without interruption of more than two years; or

    4. Having complied with the provisions of paragraph 5(a)(2) of this rule.

    (c) The examination requirement for associated persons of issuer dealers shall not apply to an individual who currently holds one of the following professional designations:

    1. Certified Financial Planner (TM) or CFP® awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc.;

    2. Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) awarded by the American College, Bryn Mawr, PA;

    3. Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) awarded by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants;

    4. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) awarded by the Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts; or

    5. Chartered Investment Counselor (CIC) awarded by the Investment Counsel Association of America, Inc.

    (7) Fingerprint Requirements.

    (a) Fingerprints filed in accordance with Section 517.12(7), F.S., shall be submitted to the Office through a live scan vendor approved by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and published on FDLE’s website for submission to FDLE and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for a state criminal background check and a federal criminal background check. The cost of fingerprint processing shall be borne by the applicant and paid directly to the live scan vendor.

    (b) Notwithstanding any exemptions found in SEC rule 17f-2 (17 C.F.R. § 240.17f-2), which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C., any direct owner, principal, or indirect owner that is required to be reported on Form BD, Uniform Application for Broker-Dealer Registration,  pursuant to Section 517.12(7), F.S., who is not currently registered in Florida with the firm they are seeking to join or act as a direct owner, principal, or indirect owner shall submit fingerprints to the Office through a live scan vendor approved by FDLE and published on FDLE’s website for submission to FDLE and the FBI for a state criminal background check and a federal criminal background check. The cost of fingerprint processing shall be borne by the applicant and paid directly to the live scan vendor.

    (8) Renewal Requirement.

    (a) Renewal fees for associated persons of issuer/dealer firms shall be filed by the firm electronically on the Office’s website at https://real.flofr.com through the REAL System and shall be deemed received on the date the Office issues a confirmation of submission and payment to the applicant via the Office’s website as required by Section 517.12(11), F.S. All renewal fees must be received by the Office by December 31 of the year the registration expires.

    (b) For associated persons of issuer/dealers, failure of the firm to submit the requisite amount of fees by December 31 of the year of expiration of the registration shall result in such registration not being renewed. If December 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the renewals received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. However, an expired registration may be reinstated in accordance with Section 517.12(11), F.S., provided that all requisite information and fees are filed electronically on the Office’s website at https://real.flofr.com through the REAL System on or before January 31 of the year following the year of expiration. Failure to submit the requisite amount of fees necessary to reinstate registration by January 31 of the year following the year of expiration shall result in such registration not being reinstated. If January 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the reinstatement received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. If the renewal or reinstatement is withdrawn or not granted, any fees filed to renew or reinstate registration shall become the revenue of the state pursuant to Section 517.12(10), F.S., and shall not be returnable.

    (9) Termination of Registration of Principal or Agent.

    (a) Where a registrant withdraws, cancels, or otherwise terminates registration, or is terminated for any reason, notice of such fact shall be filed with the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of termination by electronically filing a Uniform Termination Notice for Securities Industry Registration (Form U5) (05/2009) with the Office through the CRD. A sample form is hereby incorporated by reference and is available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/    /.

    (b) The Office may deny any request to terminate or withdraw any application or registration as provided under Section 517.161(5), F.S.

    (10) Notice of Civil, Criminal or Administrative Action. An associated person shall:

    (a) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date a complaint is served, of any civil, criminal or administrative charges filed that directly or indirectly relate to the registration or sale of securities, or which directly or indirectly relate to activities as a principal or agent, or any other activity where a breach of a fiduciary trust is alleged. This shall not include minor traffic violations; but shall include any notification of investigation by any recognized regulatory agency;

    (b) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date filed, any answer or reply to any complaint filed as outlined in paragraph (10)(a);

    (c) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of decision, order, or sanction rendered, or any appeal filed with respect to such decision with regard to any complaint outlined in paragraph (10)(a).

    (d) File with the Office one (1) copy of such complaint, answer or reply, decision, order, or sanction at the time of notification in accordance with paragraphs (10)(a), (10)(b), and (10)(c). Associated persons of an issuer/dealer shall file such notifications with the Office through the REAL System in accordance with this rule. However, responses to requests by the Office for additional information shall be filed directly with the Office.

    (11) Continuing Education Requirement. Failure to comply with any of the applicable continuing education requirements set forth in any one of the following shall be deemed a demonstration of unworthiness by an associated person under Section 517.161(1)(h), F.S.:

    (a) Rule 345A of the NYSE MKT LLC, which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C.;

    (b) Rule G-3(h) of the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board, which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C.;

    (c) Rule 341A of NYSE MKT LLC, which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C.;

    (d) Article VI, Rule 11 of the Chicago Stock Exchange, which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C.

    Rulemaking Authority 517.03(1), 517.12 FS. Law Implemented 517.12 FS. History–New ________.

     

    69W-600.0024 Application for Registration as Associated Person (Investment Adviser)

    (1) New Applications.

    (a) Applicants for registration as an associated person of investment advisers and federal covered advisers shall file the Uniform Application for Securities Industry Registration or Transfer (Form U-4) electronically through the Central Registration Depository (CRD) of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) as prescribed by the Financial Services Commission (Commission). The application shall include all information required by such form, any other information the Office of Financial Regulation (Office) may require, and payment of the statutory fees required by Section 517.12(10), F.S. The application shall be deemed received by the Office on the date designated in the “Status Date” field on the line notated “FL” with a “Registration Status” of “pending” as indicated on the CRD “Registrations with Current Employers” screen.  Every application or amendment filed pursuant to this rule shall constitute a “written application” within the meaning of Section 517.12(6), F.S.

    (b) An application shall include the following:

    1. Form U-4 (05/2009). A sample form is hereby incorporated by reference and available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/   /.

    2. Statutory fee, for each application, in the amount as required by Section 517.12(10), F.S.

    3. Evidence of examinations/qualifications set forth in paragraph (6) of this rule.

    4. Fingerprints shall be submitted in accordance with Section 517.12(7), F.S., and paragraph (7) of this rule.

    (2) Request for Additional Information. All information required by paragraph (1) of this rule shall be submitted with the original application filing. Any request for additional documents or information shall be made by the Office within thirty (30) days after receipt of the application. The Office may require documentation to be certified by its issuer based upon the Office’s review of the nature and substance of the disciplinary history of the applicant. For purposes of this rule, “certified” means that there must be an original certification or attestation by the issuer of the record that the document is a true copy of a record contained in its office and its seal, if any. Additional information shall be submitted directly with the Office within sixty (60) days after a request has been made by the Office. Failure to respond to such request within sixty (60) days after the date of the request may be construed by the Office as grounds for denial of an application in accordance with the provisions of Section 120.60(1), F.S.

    (3) Amendment of Application. If the information contained in any Form U-4 becomes inaccurate for any reason before or after the associated person becomes registered, the associated person through the investment adviser shall be responsible for correcting the inaccurate information within thirty (30) days. If the information being updated relates to the applicant’s or registrant’s disciplinary history, in addition to updating the Form U-4, the associated person through investment adviser shall also provide the Office with notice and copies of each civil, criminal or administrative action initiated against the associated person as provided in paragraph (10) of this rule. Associated persons shall file such amendments through the CRD system.

    (4) Multiple Registration.

    (a) An applicant for registration as an associated person may apply to be registered as an associated person of more than one dealer, issuer/dealer, federal covered adviser or investment adviser, or any combination thereof, by the filing of separate applications by each registered dealer, issuer/dealer, federal covered adviser or investment adviser, and payment of separate application fees as required.

    (b) A person registered with the Office as an associated person of an investment adviser shall not be required to register as an associated person of any other investment adviser on whose behalf such person solicits, refers, offers or negotiates advisory services, provided each of the following conditions are met:

    1. All compensation received by the associated person is paid by the investment adviser with which the associated person is registered;

    2. All customer funds and securities are maintained by the dealer, investment adviser, or a clearing dealer;

    3. The investment adviser shall ensure that all associated persons comply with the provisions of Chapter 517, F.S., and the administrative rules promulgated thereunder; and

    4. Each investment adviser must be registered with the Office and the associated person’s advisory services must be approved by the investment adviser the associated person is registered with prior to any services being recommended.

    (5) Alternate Business Name.

    (a) It is prohibited for any associated person to conduct investment advisory business in this state under any name other than that of the investment adviser with which the associated person is registered unless each of the following conditions is met:

    1. The business conducted does not violate or evade any provision of Chapter 517, F.S.;

    2. The business conducted does not fall within the definition of “dealer” or “investment adviser” as used in Chapter 517, F.S.; and

    3. The investment adviser with which the associated person is registered has received written notice of the name under which business shall be conducted.

    (6) Examinations/Qualifications.

    (a) Every applicant for registration shall execute and submit a statement attesting to said applicant’s knowledge and review of the Florida Securities and Investor Protection Act, as contained in the Form U-4.

    (b) An individual applying to be registered as an investment adviser or investment adviser representative shall provide the Office with proof of passing, within two years of the date of application for registration, one of the following examinations:

    1. The Uniform Investment Adviser Law Examination (Series 65) or

    2. The General Securities Representative Examination (Series 7) and the Uniform Combined State Law Examination (Series 66).

    (c) Grandfathering Provisions:

    1. Any individual who is registered as an investment adviser or investment adviser representative in any jurisdiction in the United States requiring examinations designated in paragraph (6)(b) within two years of the date of application for registration shall not be required to satisfy the examination requirements for continued registration except that the Office may require additional examinations for any individual found to have violated any state or federal securities law.

    2. An individual who has not been registered in any jurisdiction in the United States as an investment adviser or investment adviser representative within two years of the date of application for registration shall be required to comply with the examination requirements of this rule.

    (d) The examination requirement for investment adviser representatives shall not apply to an individual who currently holds one of the following professional designations:

    1. Certified Financial Planner (TM) or CFP® awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc.;

    2. Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) awarded by the American College, Bryn Mawr, PA;

    3. Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) awarded by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants;

    4. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) awarded by the Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts; or

    5. Chartered Investment Counselor (CIC) awarded by the Investment Counsel Association of America, Inc.

    (7) Fingerprint Requirements.

    (a) Fingerprints filed in accordance with Section 517.12(7), F.S., shall be submitted to the Office through a live scan vendor approved by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and published on FDLE’s website for submission to FDLE and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for a state criminal background check and a federal criminal background check. The cost of fingerprint processing shall be borne by the applicant and paid directly to the live scan vendor.

    (b) The requirement to submit fingerprints is waived for those associated persons pending registration in Florida with a FINRA member firm and such fingerprints have been submitted and processed by FINRA on behalf of the member firm with which said associated person is pending registration, pursuant to the provisions of Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) rule 17f-2 (17 C.F.R. § 240.17f-2), which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C.

    (c) Notwithstanding any exemptions found in SEC rule 17f-2 (17 C.F.R. § 240.17f-2), any direct owner, principal, or indirect owner that is required to be reported on Form ADV, Uniform Application for Investment Adviser Registration, pursuant to Section 517.12(7), F.S., who is not currently registered with the firm they are seeking to join or act as a direct owner, principal, or indirect owner shall submit fingerprints to the Office through a live scan vendor approved by FDLE and published on FDLE’s website for submission to FDLE and the FBI for a state criminal background check and a federal criminal background check. The cost of fingerprint processing shall be borne by the applicant and paid directly to the live scan vendor.

    (d) The requirement to submit fingerprints is waived for any direct owner, principal, or indirect owner that is required to be reported on Form ADV pursuant to Section 517.12(7), F.S., if fingerprints have been submitted and processed by FINRA on behalf of the member firm with which the owner or principal is affiliated, pursuant to the provisions of SEC Rule 17f-2 (17 C.F.R. § 240.17f-2).

    (8) Renewal Requirement.

    (a) Renewal fees for associated persons of investment advisers and federal covered advisers shall be submitted by the firm through the CRD by December 31 of the year the registration expires as required by Section 517.12(11), F.S.

    (b) For associated persons of federal covered advisers and investment advisers, failure of the firm to submit the requisite amount of fees by December 31 of the year of expiration of the registration shall result in such registration not being renewed. If December 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the renewals received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. However, an expired registration may be reinstated in accordance with the provisions of Section 517.12(11), F.S., provided that all requisite information and fees are date stamped by the cashier’s office of the Department of Financial Services on or before January 31 of the year following the year of expiration. Failure to submit the requisite amount of fees necessary to reinstate registration by January 31 of the year following the year of expiration shall result in such registration not being reinstated. If January 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the reinstatement received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. In the event that the renewal or reinstatement is withdrawn or not granted, any fees filed to renew or reinstate registration shall become the revenue of the state pursuant to Section 517.12(10), F.S., and shall not be returnable.

    (9) Termination of Registration of Principal or Agent.

    (a) Where a registrant withdraws, cancels, or otherwise terminates registration or is terminated for any reason, notice of such fact shall be filed with the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of termination by electronically filing a Uniform Termination Notice for Securities Industry Registration (Form U5) (05/2009) with the Office through the CRD. A sample form is hereby incorporated by reference and is available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/    /.

    (b) The Office may deny any request to terminate or withdraw any application or registration as provided under Section 517.161(5), F.S.

    (10) Notice of Civil, Criminal or Administrative Action. An associated person shall:

    (a) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date a complaint is served, of any civil, criminal or administrative charges filed that directly or indirectly relate to the registration or sale of securities, or which directly or indirectly relate to activities as a principal or agent, or any other activity in which a breach of a fiduciary trust is alleged. This shall not include minor traffic violations; but shall include any notification of investigation by any recognized regulatory agency;

    (b) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date filed, any answer or reply to any complaint filed as outlined in paragraph (10)(a);

    (c) Notify the Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of decision, order, or sanction rendered, or any appeal filed with respect to such decision with regard to any complaint outlined in paragraph (10)(a).

    (d) File with the Office one (1) copy of such complaint, answer or reply, decision, order, or sanction at the time of notification in accordance with paragraphs (10)(a), (10)(b), and (10)(c). Associated persons of a federal covered adviser or an investment adviser shall file such notifications with the Office through the CRD of the FINRA in accordance with this rule. However, responses to requests by the Office for additional information shall be filed directly with the Office.

    (11) Continuing Education Requirement. Failure to comply with any of the applicable continuing education requirements set forth in any one of the following shall be deemed a demonstration of unworthiness by an associated person under Section 517.161(1)(h), F.S.:

    (a) FINRA Rule 1250, which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C.;

    (b) Rule 345A of the NYSE MKT LLC, which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C.;

    (c) Rule G-3(h) of the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board, which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C.;

    (d) Rule 341A of NYSE MKT LLC, which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C.;

    (e) Article VI, Rule 11 of the Chicago Stock Exchange, which is incorporated by reference in Rule 69W-200.002, F.A.C.

    Rulemaking Authority 517.03(1), 517.12 FS. Law Implemented 517.12 FS. History–New ________.

     

    69W-600.0031 Notice-Filing of Branch Office (FINRA Dealer)

    (1) New Notice-Filings.

    (a) Every Florida branch office of a broker dealer registered in Florida shall be notice-filed with the Office of Financial Regulation (Office) prior to engaging in business therefrom. A broker dealer must be registered with the Office before its branch offices may notice-file. Branches of dealers who are members of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) shall file the Uniform Branch Office Registration Form (Form BR) electronically through the Central Registration Depository of FINRA (CRD) as prescribed by the Financial Services Commission (Commission).  The notice-filing shall include all information required by such form, any other information the Commission or Office may require, and payment of the statutory fees required by Section 517.1202(2), F.S.  The notice-filing fee shall be deemed received by the Office on the transaction date (Trans DT) reflected on the Central Registration Depository of FINRA (CRD) “disbursement detail” report.

    (b) A notice-filing shall include the following:

    1. Form BR (10/05). A sample form is is hereby incorporated by reference and available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/    /.

    2. Statutory fee in the amount required by Section 517.1202(2), F.S.

    3. Manager(s) and resident person(s)-in-charge, as appropriate, must be registered as set forth in Rule 69W-600.002, F.A.C.

    (2) Branch Office Designation. A branch office may or may not be designated as an Office of Supervisory Jurisdiction (OSJ) at the discretion of the registrant. For each branch office designated as an OSJ, a branch office manager shall be designated as a prinicipal and registered with the Office. The designated principal shall have passed the appropriate examination(s), administered by a national securities association or a national securities exchange registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, to supervise the activities of the branch office and its associated persons. For offices not designated as an OSJ, the branch office manager need not be located at the office(s) delegated for supervisory responsibility; however, in such cases, the registrant must specify in writing to the Office, the names of the associated persons designated as resident person(s)-in-charge as well as the branch office manager.

    (3) Amendment of Notice-Filing. If the information contained in the Form BR becomes inaccurate or incomplete for any reason after the branch office notice-files, including changing the location of the branch office or the supervisory personnel thereof, the dealer shall amend the information by filing a complete and originally executed Form BR with the Office within thirty (30) days of the change and denoting thereon that the information reported is an amendment to a previous filing. The Form BR shall be filed with the Office through the CRD as set forth in paragraph (1) of this rule. Failure to file amendments, as provided herein, shall be considered a violation of Section 517.1202(6), F.S.

    (4) Alternate Business Name. It is prohibited for any branch office to conduct securities business in this state under any name other than that of the dealer with which the branch office is notice-filed unless each of the following conditions is met:

    (a) The business conducted does not violate or evade any provision of Chapter 517, F.S.;

    (b) The business conducted does not fall within the definition of “dealer” or “investment adviser” as used in Chapter 517, F.S.; and

    (c) The dealer with which the branch office is notice-filed has received written notice of the name under which business shall be conducted.

    (5) Renewal Requirement.

    (a) Renewal fees for branch offices of FINRA member firms shall be submitted through the CRD by December 31 of the year the notice-filing expires as required by Section 517.1202, F.S.

    (b) For branch offices of FINRA members, failure of the firm to submit the requisite amount of fees as provided for in paragraph (5)(a) by December 31 of the year of expiration of the notice-filing shall result in the notice-filing not being renewed. If December 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the renewals received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. However, an expired notice-filing may be reinstated in accordance with the provisions of Section 517.1202(3), F.S., provided that all requisite information and fees are date stamped by the cashier’s office of the Department of Financial Services on or before January 31 of the year following the year of expiration. Failure to submit the requisite amount of fees necessary to reinstate the notice-filing by January 31 of the year following the year of expiration shall result in the notice-filing not being reinstated. If January 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the reinstatement received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. In the event that the renewal or reinstatement is withdrawn or not granted, any fees filed to renew or reinstate the notice-filing shall become the revenue of the state pursuant to the provisions of Section 517.1202(8), F.S., and shall not be returnable.

    (6) Termination of Branch Office. Where a branch office cancels or otherwise terminates notification, or is terminated for any reason, notice of such fact shall be electronically filed with the Office on the Form BR through the CRD within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of cancellation or termination.

    Rulemaking Authority 517.03(1), 517.1202 FS. Law Implemented 517.1202 FS. History–New ________.

     

    69W-600.0032 Notice-Filing of Branch Office (Non-FINRA Dealer).

    (1) New Notice-Filing.

    (a) Every Florida branch office of a dealer registered in Florida shall be notice-filed with the Office of Financial Regulation (Office) prior to engaging in business therefrom. A broker dealer must be registered with the Office before its branch offices may notice-file.  Branches of dealers that are not members of Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) shall file the Uniform Branch Office Registration Form (Form BR) electronically on the Office’s website at https://real.flofr.com through the Regulatory Enforcement and Licensing (REAL) System as prescribed by the Financial Services Commission (Commission). The notice-filing shall include all information required by such form, any other information the Commission or Office may require, and payment of the statutory fees required by Section 517.1202(2), F.S. The notice-filing shall be deemed received on the date the Office issues a confirmation of submission and payment to the applicant via the Office’s website.

    (b) A notice-filing shall include the following:

    1. Form BR (10/05), which is hereby incorporated by reference and available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/   /.

    2. Statutory fee in the amount required by Section 517.1202(2), F.S.

    3. Manager(s) and resident person(s)-in-charge, as appropriate, must be registered as set forth in Rule 69W-600.0022, F.A.C.

    (2) Amendment of Notice-Filing. If the information contained in the Form BR becomes inaccurate or incomplete for any reason after the branch office notice-files, including changing the location of the branch office or the supervisory personnel thereof, the dealer shall amend the information by filing a complete and originally executed Form BR with the Office within thirty (30) days of the change and denoting thereon that the information reported is an amendment to a previous filing. Dealers shall amend the branch office information by filing the Form BR electronically with the Office through the REAL System, in accordance with paragraph (1) of this rule. Failure to file amendments, as provided herein, shall be considered a violation of Section 517.1202(6), F.S.

    (3) Alternate Business Name. It is prohibited for any branch office to conduct securities business in this state under any name other than that of the dealer with which the branch office is notice-filed is registered unless each of the following conditions is met:

    (a) The business conducted does not violate or evade any provision of Chapter 517, F.S.;

    (b) The business conducted does not fall within the definition of “dealer” or “investment adviser” as used in Chapter 517, F.S.; and

    (c) The dealer with which the branch office is notice-filed or associated person is registered has received written notice of the name under which business shall be conducted.

    (4) Renewal Requirement.

    (a) Renewal fees for branch offices of non-FINRA member firms shall be filed electronically through the REAL System and shall be deemed received on the date the Office issues a confirmation of submission and payment to the applicant via the Office’s website. All renewal fees must be received by the Office by December 31 of the year the notice-filing expires as required by Section 517.1202, F.S.

    (b) For branch offices of dealers that are not members of FINRA, failure to submit the requisite amount of fees as provided for in paragraph (4)(a) by December 31 of the year of expiration of the notice-filing shall result in the notice-filing not being renewed. If December 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the renewals received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. However, an expired notice-filing may be reinstated in accordance with Section 517.1202(3), F.S., provided that all requisite information and fees are filed electronically on the Office’s website at https://real.flofr.com through the REAL System on or before January 31 of the year following the year of expiration. Failure to submit the requisite amount of fees necessary to reinstate the notice-filing by January 31 of the year following the year of expiration shall result in the notice-filing not being reinstated. If January 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the reinstatement received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. If the renewal or reinstatement is withdrawn or not granted, any fees filed to renew or reinstate the notice-filing shall become the revenue of the state pursuant to the provisions of Section 517.1202(8), F.S., and shall not be returnable.

    (5) Termination of Branch Office. Where a branch office cancels, or otherwise terminates notification, or is terminated for any reason, notice of such fact shall be electronically filed with the Office on the Form BR through the CRD within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of cancellation or termination.

    Rulemaking Authority 517.03(1), 517.1202 FS. Law Implemented 517.1202 FS. History–New ________.

     

    69W-600.0033 Notice-Filing of Branch Office (Issuer/Dealer).

    (1) New Notice-Filings.

    (a) Every Florida branch office of an issuer/dealer registered in Florida shall be notice-filed with the Office of Financial Regulation (Office) prior to engaging in business therefrom. An issuer/dealer must be registered with the Office before its branch offices may notice-file. Branches of an issuer/dealer shall file the Uniform Branch Office Registration Form (Form BR) electronically on the Office’s website at https://real.flofr.com through the Regulatory Enforcement and Licensing (REAL) System as prescribed by the Financial Services Commission (Commission).  The notice-filing shall include all information required by such form, any other information the Commission or Office may require, and payment of the statutory fees required by Section 517.1202(2), F.S. The notice-filing shall be deemed received on the date the Office issues a confirmation of submission and payment to the applicant via the Office’s website.

    (b) A notice-filing shall include the following:

    1. Form BR (10/05), which is hereby incorporated by reference and available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/   /.

    2. Statutory fee in the amount required by Section 517.1202(2), F.S.

    3. Manager(s) and resident person(s)-in-charge, as appropriate, must be registered as set forth in Rule 69W-600.0023, F.A.C.

    (2) Amendment of Notice-Filing.  If the information contained in the Form BR becomes inaccurate or incomplete for any reason after the branch office notice-files, including changing the location of the branch office or the supervisory personnel thereof, the issuer/dealer shall amend the information by filing a complete and originally executed Form BR with the Office within thirty (30) days of the change and denoting thereon that the information reported is an amendment to a previous filing. Issuer/dealers shall amend the branch office information by filing the Form BR electronically with the Office through the REAL System as set forth in paragraph (1) of this rule. Failure to file amendments, as provided herein, shall be considered a violation of Section 517.1202(6), F.S.

    (3) Alternate Business Name.  It is prohibited for any branch office to conduct a securities business in this state under any name other than that of the dealer with which the branch office is notice-filed unless each of the following conditions is met:

    (a) The business conducted does not violate or evade any provision of Chapter 517, F.S.;

    (b) The business conducted does not fall within the definition of “dealer” or “investment adviser” as used in Chapter 517, F.S.; and

    (c) The dealer with which the branch office is notice-filed has received written notice of the name under which business shall be conducted.

    (4) Renewal Requirement.

    (a) Renewal fees for branch offices of issuer/dealer firms shall be filed electronically through the REAL System and shall be deemed received on the date the Office issues a confirmation of submission and payment to the applicant via the Office’s website. A confirmation of submission is issued by the Office upon successful filing of a renewal and payment of all fees. All renewal fees must be received by the Office by December 31 of the year the notice-filing expires as required by Section 517.1202, F.S.

    (b) For branches of issuer/dealers, failure of the firm to submit the requisite amount of fees as provided for in paragraph (4)(a) by December 31 of the year of expiration of the notice-filing shall result in such notice-filing not being renewed. If December 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the renewals received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. However, an expired notice-filing may be reinstated in accordance with Section 517.1202(3), F.S., provided that all requisite information and fees are filed electronically on the Office’s website at https://real.flofr.com through the REAL System on or before January 31 of the year following the year of expiration. Failure to submit the requisite amount of fees necessary to reinstate the notice-filing by January 31 of the year following the year of expiration shall result in such registration or notice-filing not being reinstated. If January 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the reinstatement received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. If the renewal or reinstatement is withdrawn or not granted, any fees filed to renew or reinstate the notice-filing shall become the revenue of the state pursuant to the provisions of Section 517.1202(8), F.S., and shall not be returnable.

    (5) Termination of Branch Office.  Where a branch office cancels, or otherwise terminates notification, or is terminated for any reason, notice of such fact shall be electronically filed with the Officeon the Form BR through the CRD  within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of cancellation or termination.

    Rulemaking Authority 517.03(1), 517.1202 FS. Law Implemented 517.1202 FS. History–New ________.

     

    69W-600.0034 Notice-Filing of Branch Office (Investment Adviser).

    (1) New Notice-Filings.

    (a) Every Florida branch office of an investment adviser registered in Florida shall be notice-filed with the Office of Financial Regulation (Office) prior to engaging in business therefrom. An investment adviser must be registered with the Office before its branch offices may notice-file. Branches of an investment adviser shall file the Uniform Branch Office Registration Form (Form BR) electronically through the Central Registration Depository (CRD) of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) as prescribed by the Financial Services Commission (Commission). The notice-filing shall include all information required by such form, any other information the Commission or Office may require, and payment of the statutory fees required by Section 517.1202(2), F.S.  The notice-filing shall be deemed received by the Office on the transaction date (Trans DT) reflected on the CRD “disbursement detail” report.

    (b) A notice-filing shall include the following:

    1. Form BR (10/05).  A sample form is is hereby incorporated by reference and available at http://www.flrules.org/   / or http://www.flofr.com/   /.

    2. Statutory fee in the amount required by Section 517.1202(2), F.S.

    3. Person(s)-in-charge must be registered as set forth in Rule 69W-600.0024, F.A.C.

    (2) Amendment of Notice-Filing. If the information contained in the Form BR becomes inaccurate or incomplete for any reason after the branch office notice-files, including changing the location of the branch office or the supervisory personnel thereof, the investment adviser shall amend the information by filing a complete and originally executed Form BR with the Office within thirty (30) days of the change and denoting thereon that the information reported is an amendment to a previous filing. For any investment adviser, the Form BR shall be filed with the Office through the CRD of FINRA, as set forth in paragraph (1) of this rule. Failure to file amendments, as provided herein, shall be considered a violation of Section 517.1202(6), F.S.

    (3) Alternate Business Name. It is prohibited for any branch office to conduct an investment advisory business in this state under any name other than that of the investment adviser with which the branch office is notice-filed unless each of the following conditions is met:

    (a) The business conducted does not violate or evade any provision of Chapter 517, F.S.;

    (b) The business conducted does not fall within the definition of “dealer” or “investment adviser” as used in Chapter 517, F.S.; and

    (c) The investment adviser with which the branch office is notice-filed has received written notice of the name under which business shall be conducted.

    (4) Renewal Requirement.

    (a) Renewal fees for investment advisers shall be submitted through the Investment Adviser Registration Depository (IARD) of FINRA by December 31 of the year the registration or notice-filing expires. Renewal fees for associated persons of investment advisers and federal covered advisers, and branch offices of investment advisers, shall be submitted through the CRD by December 31 of the year the registration or notice-filing expires.

    (b) For branch offices of investment advisers, failure of the firm to submit the requisite amount of fees as provided for in paragraph (4)(a) by December 31 of the year of expiration of the notice-filing shall result in the notice-filing not being renewed. If December 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the renewals received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. However, an expired notice-filing may be reinstated in accordance with the provisions of Section 517.1202(3), F.S., provided that all requisite information and fees are date stamped by the cashier’s office of the Department of Financial Services on or before January 31 of the year following the year of expiration. Failure to submit the requisite amount of fees necessary to reinstate the notice-filing by January 31 of the year following the year of expiration shall result in such notice-filing not being reinstated. If January 31 falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday pursuant to Section 110.117, F.S., the reinstatement received on the next business day shall be considered timely received. In the event that the renewal or reinstatement is withdrawn or not granted, any fees filed to renew or reinstate the notice-filing shall become the revenue of the state pursuant to the provisions of Section 517.1202(8), F.S., and shall not be returnable.

    (5) Termination of Branch Office. Where a branch office, cancels, or otherwise terminates notification, or is terminated for any reason, notice of such fact shall be electronically filed with the Office on the Form BR through the CRD within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of cancellation or termination.

    Rulemaking Authority 517.03(1), 517.1202 FS. Law Implemented 517.1202 FS. History–New ________.

     

    NAME OF PERSON ORIGINATING PROPOSED RULE: Pamela Epting, Director, Division of Securities

    NAME OF AGENCY HEAD WHO APPROVED THE PROPOSED RULE: Financial Services Commission

    DATE PROPOSED RULE APPROVED BY AGENCY HEAD: June 23, 2015

    DATE NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT PUBLISHED IN FAR: June 12, 2015