The bill amends sections 984.085 and 985.731 of the Florida Statutes to impose enhanced criminal penalties for individuals who knowingly shelter an unmarried minor or assist an unmarried minor runaway. It establishes a presumption that a person knows a minor's age if the minor is under 18 years old, and it provides a defense for individuals who can demonstrate reasonable cause to believe their actions were necessary to protect the minor from danger.

Additionally, the bill changes the classification of violations from a misdemeanor to a felony of the third degree, which carries more severe penalties. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 153 Filed: 984.085, 985.731