The bill amends Florida Statutes concerning the offense of fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement officers by revising the requirements for patrol vehicle markings. It removes the necessity for agency insignia and jurisdictional markings to be prominently displayed during such incidents. The bill also introduces provisions for the impoundment of vehicles involved in these violations for 30 business days, detailing conditions for their release and notification to the registered owner. Additionally, vehicles involved in these offenses may be classified as contraband and subject to forfeiture.

Moreover, the bill reclassifies certain offenses within the Criminal Punishment Code, elevating the severity of high-speed driving or reckless behavior while fleeing from law enforcement to a second-degree felony under a new classification. It mandates a minimum three-year prison sentence for aggravated fleeing or eluding that results in serious bodily injury or death, while allowing for greater sentences as permitted by law. The bill also introduces new legal language defining "aggravated fleeing or eluding" and modifies sentencing guidelines to include multipliers for repeat offenders. These changes aim to enhance penalties for serious crimes and improve public safety, with the act set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 468 c1: 921.0024