This bill amends Florida Statutes concerning criminal offenses, particularly focusing on stalking and harassment. It revises the definitions of "harass," "course of conduct," and "cyberstalk," introducing new language that clarifies these terms, including the involvement of third parties and electronic means. The bill establishes criminal penalties for willful or malicious harassment or cyberstalking of specified justice system personnel, categorizing such actions as aggravated stalking, a third-degree felony. Additionally, it updates the elements constituting aggravated stalking and makes technical changes to related statutes. The bill also authorizes courts to issue arrest warrants under specific circumstances and includes provisions for electronic signatures on these warrants.

Moreover, the bill proposes amendments to various sections of Florida Statutes, particularly regarding violent crimes, sexual offenses, and drug trafficking. It updates the definition of "qualifying offense" related to probation violations, incorporating aggravated stalking as defined in the revised sections of s. 784.048. The bill also reenacts and amends definitions related to harassment and bullying to align with the updated stalking definitions, enhancing the legal framework for addressing these offenses. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, indicating a future implementation of these legal adjustments.

Statutes affected:
S 54 Filed: 901.02, 948.06, 948.062