The bill amends section 825.1035 of the Florida Statutes to enhance protections for vulnerable adults against exploitation by introducing provisions for substitute service on unascertainable respondents. It defines an "unascertainable respondent" as an individual whose identity cannot be determined and who has communicated with the vulnerable adult in a manner that makes tracing their identity impractical. The bill requires petitioners to file a sworn affidavit detailing their attempts to identify the respondent and the nature of their communication with the vulnerable adult. Upon filing this affidavit, the court is mandated to issue an order for service through the same communication means used by the respondent.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that any proposed transfer of funds or property in dispute must be held for 30 days following the issuance of a final order of injunction, ensuring that vulnerable adults are protected during this period. The language of the bill replaces the requirement for personal service with provisions for substitute service, thereby streamlining the process for petitioners dealing with unascertainable respondents. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.