The primary funding source for the Florida LMP program has been through a grant received through the Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR), initiated through the Hospitality Education Program (HEP). HEP requires a $10 license fee which all Florida restaurants must pay.  A portion of these funds are kept by DBPR for administrative purposes while a percentage of the funds are held in a trust until distributed by the grant recipients.

For July 1, 2010 through June 30, 2011, the grant funds were line-item vetoed by Governor Charlie Crist.  This has created a budget shortfall for the FRLAEF.  Due to the current budget situation, the following event will not take place during the 2010-2011 school year:

• Salute to Excellence Awards Luncheon

The following benefits will not be available during the 2010-2011 school year:

• Scholarship Awards
• Mini Grants
• ServSafe materials
• LMP/START Curriculum materials

The following event will take place during the 2010-2011 school year:

• 8th Annual Florida LMP Competition

The following benefits will be available during the 2010-2011 school year:

• LMP teachers and students may attend FRLA Show free of charge.                     Click here for registration information.
• The top LMP teacher, student and industry participant will be recognized at the FRLA Full Board meeting during the FRLA Show next month.                                 Click here for nomination forms.
• Teachers may still award their students the FRLAEF Hospitality Excellence Award--we will mail you the certificate.  Click here for information

We understand you may have questions regarding these changes so feel free to contact Laura Rumer or Amy Parker.