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 removal, destruction, alteration, or circumvention of such devices, and establishes graduated penalties based on the severity of the underlying charges against the individual required to wear the device. Specifically, the bill classifies the offense as a third-degree felony for those charged with a misdemeanor or third-degree felony, a second-degree felony for those charged with a second-degree felony, and a first-degree felony for those charged with more serious offenses. Additionally, it establishes that individuals under 18 years of age who commit this offense will also face a third-degree felony charge.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the revocation of pretrial release for individuals who tamper with electronic monitoring devices while on pretrial release, allowing 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 act is set for October 1, 2025.

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