Number:
INFORMAL
Issued
Federal Aviation Administration
490 L'Enfant Plaza
Suite 3200
Washington, DC 20024
Subject: Public Entity Validation
Reference: FAA Unmanned Aircraft Systems Test Site Selection – Screening Information Request (SIR) DTFACT-13-R-00002, dated February 14, 2013
To whom it may concern:
This letter serves as the official confirmation by Florida's Attorney General that Hernando County qualifies as a public entity of the State.
Hernando County is a non-charter county and political subdivision of the State of Florida. The Florida Constitution recognizes counties as political subdivisions of the state in Article VIII, section 1, which states:
"(a) POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS. The state shall be divided by law into political subdivisions called counties. Counties may be created, abolished or changed by law, with provision for payment or apportionment of the public debt."
Further, as set forth in section 1.01(8), Florida Statutes, pursuant to Florida law:
"The words 'public body,' 'body politic,' or 'political subdivision' include counties, cities, towns, villages, special tax school districts, special road and bridge districts, bridge districts, and all other districts in this state."
Thus, a Florida county, such as Hernando County, would appear to fall within the scope of the definition contained in paragraph 9.2.2.2 of the above referenced FAA SIR and would have the ability to qualify for a certificate of authorization as provided therein. In sum, under Florida law, Hernando County is considered to be a local governmental entity and political subdivision of this state.
Sincerely,
Pam Bondi
Attorney General
PB/tgh