TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has enacted a series of new laws aimed at addressing various societal issues, from legal reforms to public safety enhancements. On Thursday, he signed 12 bills into law that cover a broad range of topics, including tougher penalties for specific crimes and the establishment of a new alert system for missing children with autism. Several of these laws will take effect on July 1, alongside more than 70 other pieces of legislation.
Among the new laws is House Bill 383, which allows law enforcement officers, correctional staff, and military personnel to bypass the three-day waiting period typically required for firearm purchases, provided they pass a background check. This change aligns with provisions for those holding concealed carry licenses, and it will be implemented on July 1.
Another significant piece of legislation, House Bill 687, known as “Trenton’s Law,” enhances penalties for driving and boating offenses, particularly for repeat offenders. Under this law, a second violation of certain serious crimes, such as DUI manslaughter or vehicular homicide, will now be classified as a first-degree felony. This legislative change honors Trenton Stewart, an 18-year-old tragically killed in a DUI-related incident in 2023. The law will take effect on October 1.
House Bill 703 introduces obligations for communications providers to relocate their facilities when notified by local governments that they obstruct public rights-of-way. As it imposes relocation costs primarily on service providers, it also establishes a state grant program to assist them financially. This law is also set to take effect on October 1.
Furthermore, House Bill 711 establishes a “Spectrum Alert” specifically designed to rapidly locate missing autistic children. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement has until July 1, 2026, to implement this statewide alert system.
In addition to these laws related to public safety, House Bill 929 addresses the health and safety of firefighters by mandating that their gear be free from harmful chemicals as soon as alternative products become available. The law also restricts firefighter shifts to 42 hours per week to help combat burnout, coming into effect on July 1.
Also notable is House Bill 1559, which strengthens the Vexatious Litigant Law, aimed at curbing meritless lawsuits that burden the judicial system. This expanded definition includes individuals who repeatedly pursue claims previously dismissed by the courts, effective July 1.
House Bill 1353 provides home health agencies with increased flexibility in personnel duty distributions. In addition, House Bill 4053 allows for a specific alcoholic beverage license for event centers located in Jacksonville’s Urban Transition Area, valid immediately upon signing.
The bills signed on Thursday also include provisions clarifying the authority of the Leon County sheriff in personnel decisions, stipulating limits on compensation for healthcare providers serving Leon County inmates, and creating penalties for individuals who tamper with or harass court officials. Both of these latter measures will take effect on October 1.
As Florida continues to deal with complex social and legal issues, these legislative changes reflect a broader effort to enhance public safety and streamline governmental operations.
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