Are there any laws in Florida which protect an employee when an employer bounces their paycheck? The employer has advised that their bank accounts are severely overdrawn. Would Unemployment Laws in Florida consider a bounced payroll check a valid reason to obtain Unemployment Compensation while one seeks out new employment? Thank you!

Florida's labor laws are not very strong, but you can contact the Dept. of Labor (I think it's called the Dept. of Workforce Innovation in FL) and inquire. You may have to bring a civil suit to recover your money.

It is also very possible that this situation would be a cause for quitting that would not disqualify you from receiving UI benefits, although that is strictly up to the state rules.

I would strongly suggest that you contact the state UI board and ask if this would be a qualifying event before you quit, although I agree it's possible.