The proposed bill, titled the "Officer Jason Raynor Act," aims to strengthen legal protections for law enforcement officers and other specified personnel against criminal offenses. It amends several sections of Florida Statutes, including s. 776.051, which revises the prohibition on the use or threatened use of force to resist arrest or detention. The bill clarifies that individuals are not justified in using force against law enforcement officers engaged in their official duties. Additionally, it enhances penalties for crimes committed against law enforcement personnel, including life imprisonment for certain murder charges when the victim is a law enforcement officer performing their duties.

Further amendments include a revised definition of "law enforcement officer" in s. 784.07, expanding the scope to include various types of officers and personnel. The bill also reclassifies offenses such as assault and battery against law enforcement officers, increasing the severity of penalties for these crimes. For instance, battery against a law enforcement officer would be classified as a felony of the third degree, with a minimum sentence of six months for certain circumstances. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 175 Filed: 776.051, 782.065, 843.01