The bill amends section 893.138 of the Florida Statutes to revise the assessment and collection of fines for public nuisances. Key changes include the removal of the cap on the total amount of fines that can be imposed, allowing for fines to increase from $250 to $500 per day if the nuisance is not abated within one year. Additionally, the bill introduces a definition for "legal assistant" and stipulates that attorney fees can be awarded by the nuisance abatement board, taking into account the contributions of legal assistants who provide meaningful support under the supervision of an attorney.

Furthermore, the bill allows counties or municipalities to enter agreements with tax collectors to recover fines through non-ad valorem special assessments and establishes a process for foreclosing on liens related to unpaid fines after specified periods. It also clarifies that no lien can be placed on homestead properties and provides protections for property owners against liens if they take action to evict tenants involved in nuisance activities. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1022 Filed: 893.138
S 1022 c1: 893.138