The vision is simple: to improve existing legislation affecting Florida’s secondhand dealers.
In August 2020, gold reached an all-time high of $2,074.88 per ounce. Concurrently, Florida’s businesses in all industries were scrambling to stay afloat as they faced an unprecedented set of challenges. At that time, Shane and Emilie Socash, owners of David Reynolds Jewelry & Coin in Saint Petersburg, made a commitment: If our business survives the next two years, we’re going to work to improve the business climate for our industry.
In 2022, precious metals values remained high and David Reynolds remained open. It was the metals market that spurred the Socashes to action to ask, What would be the best first step in improving how stores like ours can become more stable and sustainable?
The answer? Changing Statute 538 for the better.
In 2022, the pair engaged with Mark Anderson Consulting in order to craft an approach that would help establish a strong position in representing the entire Secondhand Dealer community of Florida. After months of examining the various constraints of Statute 538, the team opted to push to remove the 30-day hold on precious metal bullion.
Following months of strong advocacy work, attendance at local delegate meetings and Capitol committee meetings, House Bill 737 was written into law on May 24, 2023 and an improved Statute 538 went into effect July 1, 2023.
Because of their work on this, Secondhand Dealers are no longer required to hold precious metal bullion before it can be resold.
Advocating for Secondhand Dealers across Florida.
FLASH represents all secondhand dealers in Florida, working to protect your business, strengthen the industry, and keep you informed. Our mission is to:
Promote a Positive & Professional Industry Image – We help secondhand dealers uphold ethical business practices, comply with local, state, and federal laws, and maintain a strong reputation.
Advocate for Smart Legislation – We monitor laws and regulations, ensuring secondhand dealers aren’t burdened by harmful policies. When changes are needed, we fight for fair, business-friendly solutions.
Provide Resources & Support – From legislative insights to industry best practices, we offer practical tools that help secondhand dealers operate efficiently and successfully.