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Report: State knew gun maker in business with banned Russian firm when tax incentives offered

Democrat Bill Nelson likely to jump on developments.
The website for Kalashnikov USA (screen shot)
The website for Kalashnikov USA (screen shot)
Published April 4, 2018|Updated April 4, 2018

The Florida Bulldog:

Florida Gov. Rick Scott's administration knew in 2015 when it offered $162,000 in tax-refund incentives to Pompano Beach assault rifle maker Kalashnikov USA that the company was doing business with a Russian arms giant that was blacklisted by the U.S.

Here's what confidential state records obtained by Florida Bulldog say about RWC Group LLC, a privately held American company which operates under the brand name Kalashnikov USA:

"The Company has the exclusive license to manufacture and distribute products designed and under the brands of Concern Kalashnikov, a Russian military, hunting and sporting firearms manufacturer founded in 1807," says a July 17, 2015 Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) memo.

"The Company's products are marketed under the Kalashnikov USA brand and are produced with state-of-the-art computer numeric control design and manufacturing systems, allowing for improved fit and finish. The Company's product line includes semi-automatic rifles and shotguns. The Company's products are available through direct dealers nationwide."

Full story here.

Florida Department of Economic Opportunity:

"RWC Group, LLC was awarded a Qualified Target Industry Tax Refund in October 2015, but did not receive any incentive funding because the contract was terminated. Absolutely zero state tax dollars went to this company."