Florida Community Association Manager Practice Exam

What agency is designated to enforce and ensure compliance with provisions of the Cooperative Act?

1. The Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)

2. The Secretary of State

3. The Division of Real Estate

4. Local County Authorities

The correct answer is: The Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)

The Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) is the designated agency responsible for enforcing and ensuring compliance with the provisions of the Cooperative Act in Florida. This agency oversees various regulations related to business and professional licensing, including those pertaining to cooperatives, which are a specific form of shared living arrangement governed by state law. The DBPR has the authority to investigate complaints, conduct audits, and enforce rules associated with the operation of cooperatives. This includes overseeing issues related to board governance, member rights, and operational compliance with the Cooperative Act. Their role is critical in maintaining standard practices and protecting the interests of cooperative members. The other entities mentioned, such as the Secretary of State, the Division of Real Estate, and Local County Authorities, do not have the same specific mandate regarding cooperatives. The Secretary of State primarily handles corporate filings and records, the Division of Real Estate focuses on real estate licensing and regulation rather than cooperatives specifically, and local county authorities may have limited jurisdiction that doesn’t encompass statewide cooperative regulation. Thus, the DBPR is uniquely positioned and empowered to handle matters related to the Cooperative Act effectively.