This bill establishes a new section, 943.0579, in the Florida Statutes, which outlines the process for expunging qualifying marijuana offenses. A "qualifying marijuana offense" is defined as violations related to the possession of 2 ounces or less of cannabis or possession of drug paraphernalia associated with marijuana, committed before July 1, 2025. The bill mandates the Department of Law Enforcement to issue certificates of eligibility for expunction without requiring a fee from the petitioner. It also specifies that petitions for expunction must include a sworn statement from the petitioner affirming their eligibility, with penalties for providing false information.
The bill details the procedural requirements for submitting a petition, including the need to serve copies to the appropriate state attorney and arresting agency. It allows the court to grant relief to eligible petitioners and outlines the responsibilities of the clerk of the court and the Department of Law Enforcement in processing and forwarding expunction orders. Additionally, the bill requires the department to adopt rules for implementation and sets an effective date of July 1, 2025.