The bill amends Section 843.23 of the Florida Statutes to revise the offense of tampering with an electronic monitoring device. It introduces new language that specifies unlawful actions, including the requirement for individuals to "affirmatively act to" circumvent the operation of such devices. The bill establishes graduated penalties based on the severity of the underlying offense for which the electronic monitoring device is mandated, categorizing violations into felonies of the third, second, and first degree, depending on the nature of the charges against the individual wearing the device. Additionally, it specifies that a person under 18 years of age who commits this offense will be charged with a felony of the third degree.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the revocation of pretrial release for individuals who tamper with electronic monitoring devices while on pretrial release. It allows the court to set a new bond under certain conditions aimed at protecting the community and ensuring the integrity of the judicial process. The effective date for this legislation is set for October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 437 Filed: 843.23
H 437 c1: 843.23
H 437 c2: 843.23