House Bill 285 amends Florida Statutes to enhance protections for victims of domestic violence and related offenses by introducing the term "serious violence" alongside "repeat violence." This new definition encompasses incidents of violence or stalking that result in bodily injury or death threats against the petitioner. The bill expands the grounds for seeking injunctions for protection to include serious violence, creating a new cause of action for victims. It also revises existing procedures for filing petitions, ensuring that no fees or bonds are required, and mandates prompt court hearings, especially in cases of immediate danger.

Additionally, the bill establishes a Domestic and Repeat or Serious Violence Injunction Statewide Verification System to facilitate communication among criminal justice agencies regarding injunction statuses. It includes provisions for the suspension of firearm license applications for individuals subject to such injunctions and emphasizes the importance of timely communication to prevent dangerous individuals from obtaining firearms. The bill also outlines specific prohibitions on who can serve as a patient's representative for involuntary patients and addresses the use of tracking devices in the context of domestic violence. Overall, HB 285 aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding domestic violence and improve support systems for victims, with changes set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 285 Filed: 784.046, 44.407, 61.1825, 119.0714, 394.4597, 394.4598, 741.313, 784.047, 784.048, 790.065, 934.03, 943.05