The rule chapter is being amended to update the rules and related forms that provide guidance regarding procedures, requirements, and qualifications of banks and savings associations participating as qualified public depositories (“QPDs”) in the state, pursuant to chapter 280, F.S. The proposed rules have been streamlined to improve organization and efficiency in the administration of the rule chapter. The rulemaking provides expanded guidance and criteria regarding a QPD’s request for consideration of hardship claims that may result in the adjustment of a QPD’s current pledge of collateral. The rulemaking also provides that in cases where a non-qualified depository acquires, merges or consolidates with a QPD, the grace period under which the resulting entity is automatically approved as a QPD is increased from thirty (30) days to (90) days. Changes have also been made to the filing and reporting requirements for any such resulting entity seeking to withdraw from participation as a QPD. Additionally, the rulemaking deletes an existing rule, clarifies, updates and deletes certain existing definitions, adds new definitions, updates existing forms, adds new forms, and provides electronic links to the Division’s website.